Tents To Be Used As Classrooms

The Bigfork School Board has voted to rent porta-potties and tents for the 1997-98 school year for use as temporary classrooms and restrooms to accommodate an expected influx of students.

“We are in very, very dire straits,” said trustee Sarah Groenke.

She said part of the reasoning behind the decision is to make the problem known to the public.

Board member Leon Ostrowski said the district does not have enough money to pay for new construction because the 1995 Legislature cut state funding and increased property owners’ taxes, making it more difficult for the district to pass a levy.

“The board feels frustrated,” said Superintendent Joe Malletta, referring to past failures to generate more tax support. “Every time they have tried to do something, it hasn’t gone anywhere.”

“The board members need to make a statement to deal with the crisis situation,” trustee Tom Brown said.