Letters To The Editor

Sat., Aug. 22, 1998

A real education

Perhaps the adults of Central Valley School District are about to get a real education.

In September, taxpayers will have a chance to vote on a $78 million bond, with the purpose to build two new high schools.

Two questions that remain unanswered:

One, why can’t we build our high schools for the same amount that Coeur d’Alene built Lake City High School? It seems that they were able to construct, furnish and landscape the project for less than $15 million. That alone could mean a saving to the Central Valley School District of over $50 million.

Second, it is understood that the school district will at some point apply for matching funds as it relates to this project. The question then is how will the school district utilize these matching funds? Will the debt be reduced, are there other projects that the district has designated, or will we acquire more facilities?

Our family believes in a strong education, but we also believe in spending our money wisely. If our schools can be built for total of $30 million, then $50 million is a lot of extra money being used to fulfill someone else’s dreams.

My dream is that while we improve our facilities, we concentrate on developing a curriculum that will prepare our youth for the challenges of the future. Two new buildings will make us feel good as we drive by them, but they will not ensure a good education. Matthew C. Hawkins Spokane

Local journalism is essential.

Give directly to The Spokesman-Review's Northwest Passages community forums series -- which helps to offset the costs of several reporter and editor positions at the newspaper -- by using the easy options below. Gifts processed in this system are tax deductible.

Meet Our Journalists

Jesse Tinsley

Meet Jesse Tinsley. As a certified drone pilot, this veteran Spokesman-Review photographer often can be seen capturing beautiful aerial photographs of our region. Sometimes though, the job requires getting down with the dogs.
Jim Meehan

Jim Meehan is no stranger to Zag Nation. As the lead writer covering the Gonzaga men’s basketball team, he tells the stories behind the game and gets fans a bit closer to their favorite players.
Molly Quinn

There is no artist in Spokane like Molly Quinn. Her whimsical style is instantly recognizable to readers of The Spokesman-Review. She has painted gorgeous illustrations that instantly elevate the journalism accompanying it. She brings to life the stories that defy photography. She makes our pages better.
Rob Curley

Spokesman-Review editor Rob Curley loves to talk with people and learn about their lives, whether it's a best-selling author or a stranger he meets downtown on his walk to lunch. It's that inquisitive nature combined with a playful sense of storytelling that helps make our newspaper different than most.