EDITOR: Letter writer Ann[e] Wells' assertion that the current trustees on the Jefferson School District board are only concerned with book learning is ludicrous. Of course, we are proud of the high level of academic achievement that Jefferson students have long been known for. As active members of the community, we receive regular feedback from Jefferson graduates and others who are grateful for the impact our rigorous academic program has had and continues to have on the lives we touch. API scores are numbers on paper. Student success is what we are all about.
Further, we are proud of the enrichment programs offered by the Jefferson School District and the many culturally enriching activities that are available to the Jefferson students. Music is alive and well in the district. The Jefferson band continues to outperform not only other middle school bands, but many high school programs as well. Attend one homecoming parade and you will see evidence of this fact. Students who are not involved in the band program recieve classroom music instruction that is supported by a district-owned music curriculum. Jefferson students have the opportunity to participate in a performing arts program that has presented three musicals in as many years. An after school choir class is open to fifth through eighth grade gifted students. The artist in Residence Program offers instruction in the visual and performing arts. Students not only attend, but also perform in Shakespearean plays. The list goes on and on.
Finally, as I have shared with school board candidate Dan Wells, he has a great deal to learn about how school funding works. No, Tracy Unified will not build their new high school in our district. School districts only build schools in their own districts. They can't afford to be quite so generous! No, developmer fees and interest on facilities accounts cannot be used to fund programs. Not only is it not allowed, but it also is unwise. We use facilites money to build and maintain schools so that we can maintain class sizes and keep our schools in good physical condition. No, we do not have a million-dollar surplus in our facilities accounts. We own an empty lot in the Edgewood subdivision where we plan to build a $10 million school. And yes, we do apply for grants. We have recieved $11 million in grant money in the last four years alone. A large percentage of it went to build the school your children attend.
Jefferson School District residents, be cautious at the polls. Don't fall for misinformation. Join me in supporting incumbents Todd Wetherell and R.G. Fagin as trustees for the Jefferson School District and in welcoming Michelle Mercer to this very conscientious board.
Debbie Wingo
Jefferson School District trustee
Tracy