By Scott Uppena
Royall School District Superintendent
As I compose my feelings of gratitude to words regarding Nov. 5’s very important vote for our children and communities, I am at a loss for words. I know I am not alone by feeling humbled by the support we feel from our communities.
On behalf of the administration, school board, staff and most importantly our students, I want to thank the voters for getting out and voting. Your voices have been heard. Yes, the operational referendum for the Royall School District passed, and we are truly grateful for the support you continue to show our students. It did not pass by a landslide, and the administration and school board will continue to work on ways to move the members of our communities forward together.
With this referendum passing now and not having to wait until April, we are able to begin our plans for the goals of the district.
We are in the final steps of creating our strategic plan (Panther Plan). This plan will help guide the Royall School District, navigate future priorities and decisions that are both best for our students, and better engage in community involvement. With the referendum passing, we are getting to work on our course offerings for next year, and we know we can continue to provide multiple dual-credit college-level courses, elective courses and extracurricular activities. We can continue to work to make sure our curriculum resources align with current state standards and that we are meeting the needs of every student, no matter how diverse.
The money that we receive from the state falls short on the cost of educating each student. Until the current funding formula is changed, the responsibility for the shortfall will fall back on the local taxpayers. I strongly urge you to consider contacting your local and state officials and advocate for more funding for public schools.
Today is a great day to be a Panther!
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