The Rugby School District’s long term planning meeting couldn’t have come at a more opportune time.

The forum is required by law every other year, and it’s scheduled for Monday, April 19 at 7 p.m. in the Rugby Jr.-Sr. High library.

One of the presentations will be to review the proposed renovations at the Rugby Jr.-Sr. High. To date, the district has completed a facility assessment, assembled an ad hoc committee to review and discuss the building improvements, and hired an architect to draft plans.

It’s likely the architect will have a prepared presentation at the April 19 meeting to show those in attendance just what the classroom improvements to the school building could look like.

School officials are hopeful a good number of residents will take time to attend the long range planning meeting and get a better understanding of the renovation project, which likely will need bond issue approval to be completed in its entirety.

The forum, however, will touch on more than facility planning.

Recently, changes were announced to graduation requirements and students will be required to take additional math and science coursework.

The district has continued to increase its curriculum choices for students through distance learning and establishing a career and technology education program.

A district demographic report will be reviewed and there is good news to report there. The district has been gaining, or at the very least, holding its student population numbers over the past few years which is encouraging. However, declining enrollment continues to be a concern.

There will also be discussion on current and future staffing needs as well as other school-related topics.

All these issues are important to address, and the April 19 forum will give the public the chance to chime in. A strong and growing school system is vital for the community.

However, its future success hinges on an informed and supportive public.