I would like to take this opportunity to thank several organizations and individuals for their efforts during the past 18 months who helped inform the voters of Washington regarding the current facility needs at WCHS.
PCAC – The Parent Community Advisory Committee was formed in August 2007 and began studying the future facility needs of WCHS.
This group of 10 parents and community members recommended to the board of education that the district study and develop a plan for the future needs of WCHS.
Board of education – The WCHS board of education selected an architect and ordered a needs assessment to be completed in the summer of 2008.
The results of the needs assessment were the catalyst which brought about the Community Engagement Process in the fall of 2008.
The Community Engagement Process eventually resulted in the board approving an $18.4 million renovation/addition proposal to be placed before the voters on April 7.
CRC – Citizen’s Referendum Committee did an outstanding job communicating the key pieces of the proposal to the voters of Washington.
Several individuals gave countless hours towards this task and are to be commended for their efforts: Kathy Schlink, chairperson; Kenna Pope and Shelli McClellan, communications; Matt Martin, community outreach; Kevin Doglio, treasurer; and Danette Wetterauer and Jamie Alexander, canvassing.
WEA – Washington Education Association played an integral role in the Community Engagement Process and were major players in the canvassing efforts throughout the month of March. Special thanks to Dan Reem, WEA president, and the executive board for their leadership.
WCHS Administrative Team – Steve Zimmerman, Mike Sluder, Todd Hellrigel, Karen Stevens, Craig Anderson and Joe Virbickis gave a multitude of hours participating in the Community Engagement Process and leading many building tours throughout the 2008-09 school year.
All groups and individuals mentioned above, including the 200-plus adults who attended the community engagement meetings, truly demonstrated the campaign motto for the students who will soon arrive at WCHS.
Pride in our past.
Protect our present.
Provide for our future.
My sincere thanks to everyone who supported this effort on behalf of all students in our community.
Dr. Jim Dunnan
Superintendent, WCHS
Washington
