I have been asked a lot of questions regarding the school improvement and new construction that is being proposed.

As a concerned parent who did not graduate from Rugby High School I have toured the Rugby High School numerous times. Our custodial service over the years has done an amazing job to maintain our school; therefore the majority of residents are not aware of the need to remodel.

Our school is simply worn out in certain areas; 55 years is a long time, and the 1955 construction is in need of remodeling.

The new construction that is being proposed is the area that many residents are questioning. Many residents have commented on the fact that we have a declining enrollment so therefore why do we need more space?

Education, safety of students and handicapped accessibility are the main reasons for the new construction.

The main entrance to our school is a great distance from the office; a person could enter our school and go to many classrooms before crossing the path of our secretary or other administration. Our staff does as good of a job as possible with the current entrances, by locking certain doors and using signs to have people report to the office upon entering our school. The sad truth in today’s world is that student safety is a major concern; in 1955 this was not a concern. To have a person enter our school unnoticed by our administration is a frightening thought.

Our cafeteria is currently located on a lower level, we do have a lift for handicap accessibility but this is an inconvenience for our students and visitors with special needs.

This cafeteria is not only used by our students but also by other organizations in our community. Placing this facility on the main floor is an important step toward a welcoming environment for everyone.

This being said, please take a moment to tour the 1955 wing of our school, if you would like company I would be glad to take that tour with you at any time. This community had the foresight to build a beautiful school in 1955, now it is up to us to continue this tradition of putting the needs of our youth first. I believe our community will continue to be a progressive town in a state that is finally being noticed by this nation. Now is definitely the time to move forward and show our youth how valuable they arewho knows maybe more will come back and become our leaders of tomorrow!

Schmaltz is a member of the Rugby School Board