School board made a tough call

The patrons of the Sisters School District owe a big "Thanks" to all five volunteers who serve on the school board.

Glen Lasken, Steve Keeton, Bill Reed, Heather Wester and Jeff Smith decided on Thursday, August 31, to ask Sisters voters for a local option levy to bring back teaching positions cut due to budget problems, replace outdated textbooks and tackle long-deferred school maintenance.

They also decided to seek a $22 million bond to build a new high school. The current high school would become a middle school. The deteriorating and substandard facility downtown would be retired.

The board wrestled over whether to include an indoor swimming pool, covered tennis courts, a performing arts center in the high school bond. There was disagreement and debate. Board members doubtless lost more than one night of sleep, knowing their decisions will shape the future of Sisters' schools for decades.

There were very good arguments, educational and fiscal, for both sides.

In the end, they decided not to include these amenities, while setting aside space for them on school land. By forgoing these accessories, the board hopes to keep the trust of voters in the absolute need for the levy and the high school bond.

This was an extremely difficult process, and the job is far from over. But every citizen can have confidence that Sisters school board members are doing their courageous best for the children of Sisters.

J.C. & E.D.