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I remember having a conversation with Steamboat Springs Middle School assistant principal Jerry Buelter late in 2005. Our conversation revolved around what the "best school district" in the state of Colorado would look like. There were many identified characteristics, some of which included a diverse curriculum, dynamic community, administrative leadership, advanced educational environments (facilities), and highly (continuously) trained professionals capable of stimulating a passion for learning.

On Nov. 7,, the community of Steamboat Springs will have the rare opportunity to invest in the future of our children, the future of Steamboat Springs, and the future of our way of life. By supporting the last two characteristics identified above (educational environment and professional attraction), we take one step closer to attaining our goals.

The road to this point has been thoughtful and well debated. Written questionnaires were sent; professionally conducted surveys were enlisted; forums were provided; and community leader opinions were heard. When addressing the concept of facility replacement and redevelopment, all influencing factors were analyzed.

In the case of Soda Creek Elementary School, location-determining issues such as transportation, facility size and design, safety, existing and future growth, and community sentiment were reviewed. The logical conclusion: rebuild Soda Creek Elementary where it stands. With Strawberry Park Elementary, issues such as safety, limited life expectancy of existing modular structures, and accommodation for expected growth were all researched. Again, the logical conclusion: remove the existing modular buildings and replace them with a permanent structure.

When addressing the issue of attracting a quality, highly trained, professional staff, the debate becomes more hotly contested. Quite literally, there exists a shortage of all educational professionals in the U.S. Without addressing the quality of applicants, just filling a position is a significant issue. Add to this the skyrocketing cost of living in Steamboat Springs and you only compound the problem. Why would a teacher want to live outside of Steamboat only to commute? If they live outside the district, they will want to teach outside the district. Which district will have the highest quality level of education professionals?

I realize that the passage of 3C and 3D will not be the solution to all education issues; however it is a start and a step in the right direction. As I said to the gentleman who stopped me recently in a local bank to ask me if I thought these issues needed resolution this year, I said, "Why would you want to wait?"

Does Soda Creek Elementary need replacing immediately? No, but in a few years there will be no choice, and at what cost? The economy of Steamboat Springs is phenomenal; rising revenues, low interest rates, and sunsetting bond indebtedness create an ideal atmosphere for this investment in our children's future, our community's future and our future.

Vote yes on 3C and 3D. Vote now when the timing is right.

Tom Miller-Freutel

Steamboat Springs