Dear Editor:
Thirty-five years ago, at the young age of 21, I began my teaching career with Jefferson City Public Schools. During my second year of teaching in 1983, my kids and I were moved to a trailer at South Elementary School due to overcrowding. I spent four years doing my best to conduct class in a trailer. The setting was far from ideal, and I wouldn't wish the conditions on anyone. My heart breaks when I still see trailers - after all these years - next to our buildings. Our kids deserve better from us.
Jefferson City quickly became home for Mark and me. We love this town. I taught 32 years in our public schools, proudly gave birth to two Jefferson City High School graduates, and bleed nothing but red and black. I long for Jefferson City to become home to other young families, but for this to happen, much work needs to be done. The overcrowding is real and we must increase classroom space so our skilled staff can teach innovative curriculum and prepare our students to be productive citizens.
There's been enough talk. It is now time to vote "yes" on Propositions J and C. It's our responsibility to do what's best for our kids and our community.