School bond's passage is critical to 21st century learning

I am the mother of two daughters who graduated from the Cheney School District. I’m writing in support of the upcoming bond measure which is a proposal to fund renovation or construction of buildings within the district.

This bond is an issuance of $52 million of general bonds that will pay associated costs of expanding and renovating Cheney High School, Sunset Elementary, Windsor Elementary and Betz Elementary. Also making security improvements to these schools and Salnave Elementary along with acquiring land and relocating Three Springs High School from the current portables. The improvements are greatly needed in the district as the projected enrollment over the next six years is anticipated to be an additional 600 students.

As a past teacher at Cheney Middle School and a current computer science and science coordinator serving 59 school districts, I see the absolute need for our schools to be safe. Our schools also need to be meeting the needs of a 21st century student, with the space and technology to have our students meet 21st century learning goal. Having worked closely with the Department of Education and the White House on assessment, technology, and building capacity for students, I believe this bond is imperative to our children and the life of our community.

Cheney School District is an amazing district and provided a quality education not only for my children but for thousands of other children — please continue to support our community and vote yes on Feb. 14, 2017. Let’s make sure to keep Cheney Schools moving forward and help to support the growth in our community.

Tammie Schrader

Cheney