Shape The Future Of Chariho Infrastructure
The following letter was written by Gina Picard, Chariho Superintendent of Schools, to explain the May 7 referendum.
On Tuesday, May 7, Charlestown, Richmond, and Hopkinton voters decide on the School Bond Referendum, shaping the future of our educational infrastructure.
Our goal is to provide a fiscally responsible and educationally sound plan. For the district to become more efficient, we must address the issues of our aging elementary school facilities. The cost of operating four aging buildings will be the same, and in some cases more, than embarking on new construction. Unfortunately, some believe you will save taxpayer dollars by saying “no” to this bond. The reality is that saying “no” to the school bond will cost the taxpayers more as the needs of the facilities continue to increase.
First and foremost, let me underscore the significance of investing in our educational infrastructure. Our schools are the cornerstone of our community, shaping the minds and futures of our youth. However, many of our school buildings need repairs and upgrades to ensure a safe and conducive learning environment. The school bond aims to address these pressing issues by funding new construction for our elementary schools and health and safety upgrades on our main campus. Schools built in the 1930s were not designed for the safety and security needs that we are experiencing in today’s society. Our district continues to spend millions of dollars on maintenance, repairs, and capital improvements for our elementary schools, and the reality is that as fast as we fix one thing, something else needs to be addressed.
It is inaccurate to say that the district can simply spend less than $2 million dollars and get reimbursed 65%. The school building authority and housing aid reimbursements require thorough consideration of both new construction and future needs. The Chariho Act was written in the 1950s, and while it states that the district can borrow money, the Rhode Island housing aid rules have strict requirements for accessing funding.
Claims that the bond is unnecessary are simply unfounded. The School Bond Referendum is not just about buildings; it’s about the future of our children and our community. Improved facilities can enhance student learning outcomes and increase property values in our community. By investing in our educational infrastructure, we are investing in our students’ academic success and the future prosperity of our community. Let’s continue the positive momentum to ensure Chariho benefits from the state bond that was approved by all three of our member towns in 2018 and in 2022 to fund school construction.
I urge everyone to visit our website to get accurate information. Our schools should be vibrant hubs of education equipped with modern resources, state-of-the-art technology, and engaging spaces that encourage collaboration and innovation. By investing in educational infrastructure, we are investing in our students’ academic success and the future prosperity of our community. Let us strive to provide our students with the same tools, opportunities, and support that districts across Rhode Island have invested in to ensure students thrive. We will continue to advocate for the best interests of our students and families while operating more efficiently.
Early Voting at Town Hall
Early in-person voting is taking place now at Town Hall, anytime between 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday, May 6.
Tuesday, May 7 is the all day Referendum
Voting will take place at Charlestown Town Hall, anytime between 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
May 6, 2024 @ 7:34 am
A short inconvenience for a long term gain. With parental and societal support children are very resilient and adaptable. Do you value and support education? Do you support our teachers or do you just think money and convenience only. Do you teach your children respect for education and teachers and value them. What is best for future generations? People have sacrificed much for their child’s education in the past . Now many have forgotten how valuable it is to have an educated as well as skilled population and electorate. One that can dig deep into issues and evaluate critically. The mind works better when comfortable and addresses various learning styles. Education has come a long way but it needs support from society.
May 6, 2024 @ 9:44 am
Considering my children will be out of the elementary school by the time construction is completed, I am not interested in disrupting their lives like this. It’s not about money or convenience for me. It’s about having a child with developmental disabilities, who simply will not be able to handle such a drastic change, no matter what support they receive. Of course I value education and support our teachers and I let them know it too. You have no idea how much I support my child’s education at home, because resources are stretched so thin within the district. So how dare you make such rude presumptions. I am a parent and a taxpayer, so I have every right to voice my opinion and vote as I see fit.
May 5, 2024 @ 5:45 pm
This is ridiculous! Please state all the facts instead of just the ones you want people to know! Just the fact that my children could potentially have to go to South Kingstown is enough for me to vote no! Parents, do ALL your research before voting yes!