[Winona Online Democracy] I read with interest the WDN Editorial regarding the new ALC being proposed for a hefty $2.4 million dollars. Since this money can be voted on without the taxpayer input, I wonder how many other $2 million dollar tax increases are on the docket after the referendum failed? Will they vote next month on a $2 million dollar technology plan? Perhaps in March they may get to vote a $2 million dollar levy for school upgrades too.
I was told that a "check-off" list was going online after the referendum was approved to show how programs were being reinstated. The list is not online yet-and the programs being INstated are NEW not old. (ie IB program). I find it insulting that the board does not take into account who gives them their money. I find it unacceptable that decisions are made behind closed doors. Just because a decision is made in private, does not mean the decision isn't public. Also, how many email or IM quorums have taken place...that were not made public? Technology is funny that way.... I was told during the referendum that information wasn't being shared with the public because "they" (members of the board and administration) thought the public didn't want so much information. It wasn't until people made waves that referendum information (specifically numbers) was placed online and shared with everyone. Personally, I'm tired of the idea that the public cannot make intelligent decisions with appropriate and honest information. (We are seeing this in all levels of government, not just our local school board) I'm tired of going to site-base meetings at our elementary school and struggling to get another couple of hours for a custodial staff person, while administration moves for $2 million dollars and new schools are being planned. And did anyone catch the Ridgeway article in the WDN? One of the reasons for not moving ahead with the sale of the Ridgeway building is because the board is thinking about REOPENING!! Ridgeway!! "Hannon said the district has several options: do nothing, sell the building, re-open its own elementary school at Ridgeway, find an alternative use for the building or sell it to the Ridgeway association." (WDN) That move was either shady, brilliant or both! Close a school, wait for it to successfully charter and burst at the seams...and then WHAM re-open the school and leave the parents no choice, but to send their children through WAPS. Maybe school districts are not an economy of scale after all. I look forward to seeing the LTE's to the WDN after today's editorial. Tania M. Schmidt _______________________________________________ This message was posted to Winona Online Democracy All messages must be signed by the senders actual name. No commercial solicitations are allowed on this list. To manage your subscription or view the message archives, please visit http://mapnp.mnforum.org/mailman/listinfo/winona Any problems or suggestions can be directed to mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] If you want help on how to contact elected officials, go to the Contact page at http://www.winonaonlinedemocracy.org
