Kathy Pantzke, Sartell
To my fellow citizens of the Sartell-St. Stephen School District:
I am writing this to ask you to vote yes in the upcoming bond referendum on May 24. I have taught in this great school district for many years and am recently retired. I continue to be involved in the schools by attending activities with my grandchildren, volunteering and substitute teaching. I have had the unique opportunity to watch this school district grow from a graduating class of under 100 students to classes graduating more than 300 students. The growth is a testament to the excellent education this school district has provided. This community supported the educational system by approving the building of new facilities. Each time, the buildings were filled to capacity. They are once again filled to beyond capacity. In my experience as a substitute teacher, I can personally attest to the crowded conditions. Many teachers are on carts, offices are in storage spaces or closets, the halls are crowded. In my experience, the crowded conditions make it more difficult to meet the safety needs of the students and to secure the buildings. The crowding reduces flexibility in providing opportunities for each student.
I am passionate about providing a good education for all children. It is money well spent. The proof of that is evidenced by the number of our graduates who continue on to higher-educational institutions. Many of our former students have returned to the Sartell area, becoming professionals, opening businesses, farming or becoming part of the area workforce. They are raising their families in this district, knowing from their experience this community values a good education. Please join me on May 24 in voting yes to continue to provide appropriate learning conditions as our community continues to grow. The “yes” vote is an investment in the future of our children and grandchildren, our community and the future workforce.