It is easy to say we care about the community in which we live.

It is even easier to say we care about the children who live in our community.

But when it comes down to backing up our words with action, will we do it?

During the special election on Tuesday, May 5, Niles residents will have the chance to do just that.

By voting “yes” for two Niles Community Schools bond proposals, you are not just saying you care about your community and its kids — you are showing it.

The money generated from the first bond proposal — around $29.7 million — would pay for improvements necessary for ensuring the safety, security, comfort and well being of the district’s students.

The buildings in which these students come to learn every day are between 50 and 77 years old. Anyone who has walked through a classroom lately knows that the improvements are long overdue.

One teacher at the high school said the heating in her room is so poor that a soda can left overnight by a window had frozen and exploded by the time she returned the next day.

Students who sit next to these outdated windows either freeze in the winter or bake in the late spring/early summer.

How can we expect students to learn when faced with these conditions?

The first proposal would also pay for upgrades to security features district wide, including secured entrances, an updated fire alarm system and a new public announcement system. After recent school shooting tragedies across the country, how could anyone say “no” to such a vital upgrade?

Passing the first proposal would also make sure students have access to 21st Century technology like expanded Wi-Fi and interactive projection systems.

These technology upgrades won’t just help teachers teach, they will help students learn skills necessary for success in college and the workplace.

The second bond proposal — which would raise about $10.3 million — would allow the district to give students and teachers classrooms they can be proud of by installing new doors, floors, ceilings and classroom furniture in every classroom.

Anyone wondering what that might look like should tour the New Tech wing at the high schol. While it might not be the same style, it would be of the same quality.

In the minds of Leader Publications’ editorial staff, these improvements are not just necessary —they are vital for securing the future of the district.

The cost for supporting both proposals would be about $15 a month for the average taxpayer.

It is a small investment for such a large return.

We urge everyone to live up to their words and show they care about the community and its children by voting “yes” on both school bond proposals.

 

Opinions expressed are those of the editorial board consisting of Publisher Michael Caldwell and editors Ambrosia Neldon, Craig Haupert, Ted Yoakum and Scott Novak.