Our lives are filled with defining moments. Decisions we make that we can look back on to pinpoint how we got to where we are today. For the Niles community, one such defining moment took place on Tuesday, May 5 when residents approved two bond proposals that will have a long-lasting impact on the future of our children, our schools, our local businesses and our community.

On behalf of the entire Niles school community, I’d like to thank everyone who came out to the polls to cast their vote. The improvements and upgrades we will be implementing as a result of the proposals passing are vital to ensuring our students are safe, secure and able to access the tools essential for 21st Century learning. Our community is stronger today than it was yesterday and it will only continue to get stronger through this investment in our children, who one day will become our future business leaders, educators, homeowners and parents.

In the coming weeks, Niles Community Schools will lay out our plans for implementation of the improvements and upgrades to our buildings. In the meantime, as the end of the school year approaches, I would encourage you to take advantage of the various activities and celebrations taking place in our schools, from music concerts and recognition ceremonies to graduation ceremonies. These events will feature defining moments for our students.

As I’ve said previously, it’s an exciting time to live in the Niles community. We are grateful for the continued support you provide Niles Community Schools and look forward to working closely with you — our partners in the education of Niles’ children — as we initiate the improvements and upgrades to our schools.

Dr. Michael Lindley is Superintendent for Niles Community Schools.