Say Y-E-S to H-E-S

Tuesday evening I spoke to members of the Hardy PTA and other citizens who came out to Hardy for a special meeting on the future of the school.  I shared with them our plan for Hardy, which includes a significant renovation and addition to the aging facility.  I showed them examples of recent renovations throughout IWCS so they could see that our proposal is not just putting "lipstick on a pig". 

Many of the parents, grandparents, and citizens who spoke Tuesday night shared their love for Hardy and their appreciation for the incredible staff who teach and care for their children daily.  They agreed that the children in the Hardy district deserve similar spaces and programs offered at other elementary schools.  We showed a video that highlights the incredible differences between Hardy Elementary and a newer elementary school less than 15 miles away--Carrollton. Whether you have ever set foot in Hardy or Carrollton, you must watch this video to see for yourself the side by side comparison of these 2 schools.  You will immediately recognize the issues at Hardy and understand why we need to implement the proposed plan as soon as possible. 

There were some questions from parents about how this project would impact taxpayers.  If you are a homeowner, then the renovation, if approved by the Board of Supervisors, will probably result in a tax increase.  Our calculations are that it may be around 2.3 cents per $100, but the rate would be determined by the Supervisors.

I want to thank everyone who came out to the meeting on Tuesday, including Mr. Rudolph Jefferson, Board of Supervisors, Hardy District, and School Board Members Vicky Hulick (Chair, Newport District), Jackie Carr (Vice-Chair, Carrsville District), and Kirstin Cook (Smithfield District).  I appreciate Mrs. Denson's assistance with getting the word our to her parents about the meeting.  Most importantly, I want to thank everyone who attended the meeting and those who candidly shared their feelings about Hardy. 

The Board of Supervisors has scheduled a Public Hearing on the Operating Budget and Capital Improvement Plan budget for April 25, at 6:00 pm, at the IOW Courthouse Complex.  We need our parents to share their support for the Hardy project with the Supervisors.  If you can't attend, consider writing a letter that someone who is speaking can deliver to the Supervisors that evening.  Let's make sure the students and staff at Hardy have a facility that matches their same level of greatness.