Through our roles with Fort Hays State University, we have seen time and time again the importance of strong public schools in bringing new families to our community. Ensuring future Tigers have the best possible educational experience, as well as attracting top talent to Fort Hays State University and our community are two reasons we support the USD 489 bond.
Even before today’s tight labor market, when prospective professors or professional staff considering a position at our university would visit Hays public schools, they would leave unimpressed by the outdated facilities. Some accepted positions here regardless, while others chose communities with more spacious, modern schools. Going forward, this competition for talent is one we cannot afford to lose.
Much has been said about the cost of this bond - $143.5 million - and how some feel it is too much for a community the size of ours. We believe that the cost of doing noting is far greater.
“Opportunity cost” refers to the potential benefits that a business or community misses out on when choosing one course of action over another. How many great professionals have opted to raise families in other communities because Hays lacks modern schools? These costs are incalculable, but very real. How many of our friends and family members have opted to live in other communities that choose to invest in modernized educational experiences and to give their children the best education experience possible? We know of several, and it’s likely that you do, too.
This bond presents an opportunity to right-size and modernize our schools, to improve educational outcomes, and most importantly to give young families a reason to say “Yes” to Hays. We encourage all Hays residents to join us in voting “Yes” for both the school bond, and the sales tax question which will help lower its cost.
Ed and Mary Hammond, Hays