To the editor:

I would like to thank the Bainbridge Island School Board, and the steering committee that guided them, for their courageous decision to file for a bond vote on Feb. 9 to replace three failing school buildings on our island.

The decision to accept the resolution to ask for $81.2 million was not taken lightly. It is my understanding that the conclusion to replace the three buildings including a 600-seat auditorium was based on many meetings with the community, PTOs and school staff. This was also part of a 15-year capital plan started in 2007.

A good education is a right, not a privilege. The buildings identified in the reports presented to the school board were recognized to be in poor condition 10 years ago. They required significant work to bring them up to current seismic standards and create a more equitable learning environment for students. I understand that learning in natural daylight with space for individualized learning is better for educating today’s student. Neither Blakely nor the Bainbridge High School 100 Building can offer students a 21st century educational environment.

We should be proud of the achievements of our student population. Bainbridge Island has a reputation for offering a respectable education and is ranked as one of the best in the state. That makes our community a desirable place to live. I am proud to support our schools and am grateful to the school board for their support, as well.

CHERYL DALE

Bainbridge Island