Think of the children, support the school bond

I was shocked and saddened by the results of the election, in which the Cheney High School bond did not have enough “Yes” votes to pass. I am concerned as a parent of two elementary students, as well as a professor in health and fitness education who works closely with Cheney Schools.

Last week, one of my EWU students taught a lesson in which 120 high school students had to share a gym. This hinders quality teaching and learning, as well as safety. This problem is not exclusive to physical education. Overcrowding is forcing students into portables, crowded hallways, and common areas.

As a parent and professor, I am fortunate to collaborate with the Cheney Schools often. My EWU students observe at Snowdon Elementary, seeing firsthand how facilities can positively impact learning. Most recently, we helped run a fitness fundraiser for Windsor Elementary. Gratefully, we were able to use the newly built Westwood Middle School track and tennis courts. I rave about our schools to everyone. When newly hired professors ask my opinion on where to purchase a home, I tell them, “Hands down, it is the Cheney School District.”

My husband and I have both taught for 16 years. Several years ago, while teaching in our hometown on the west side of the state, we decided we would not raise our children in that district. They could not pass a bond for improvements to the schools. As teachers, that was tough to swallow. But as parents, it was just too much. The situation there has not improved. Every year they continue to lose quality families who seek more opportunities and better educational facilities for their children. I strongly believe our district is better than that. We want the Cheney School District to draw people in, not away.

There is a reason our enrollment is skyrocketing. Cheney Schools are amazing! But they can only continue to be so if we offer our students top educational experiences, which require appropriate facilities. Please think of the children, who are our future, and let’s “Approve” the Cheney bond.

Dr. Carri Kreider

Cheney