The Washington School Board conducted regular business at Thursday night’s meeting, but the main reason the crowd was there was the first of two public hearings on a proposed middle school building project.
Patrons heard about the project from Superintendent Dr. Dan Roach, along with the school system’s attorney, Clay Havill, and representatives of the architecture firm of Kovert and Hawkins, and financial advisers of Baker Tilly. The project includes a grade 5 to 8 middle school along with a multipurpose field house and a varsity football stadium and track. The 20 year bond issue will be capped at $38 million, with a maximum effect on the tax rate of 48 cents. Roach said the driving force behind the project is the school system’s overcrowded classrooms.
No one spoke against the proposal and everyone who spoke in favor of it received loud applause from the audience. Board President Steve Frette emphasized that anyone with questions should feel free to ask. A second public hearing on the project is scheduled for Monday at 6 pm in the Auditorium.
During the public comment and question session, Dr. Jason Omer complimented the Board on their willingness to listen to the public and for the long term vision of the project. David Stowers emphasized the importance of cutting class size and said all kids need the same quality of education free of stigma and stereotype. Mike Myers called for a reduction in class size and said the new facility would be a statement we can make for our community. Also speaking in favor of the project, Pete Parsons said the grade-level proposal would allow teachers to focus on their strengths.