The “YES” Side of Rapid City School Bond Issue

Civil debate and disagreement is a healthy thing.

I enjoy friendship and relationships with MANY people on both sides of many issues. Where I part company (whether I agree or disagree with their position on an issue) is when someone becomes UN-civil in presenting their arguments. Val Simpson is someone for whom I have much respect and someone who has the unshakable ability to present civil discourse. Her support in favor of the Rapid City School Bond issue is deserving of hearing:

“My Journey to YES

Yes. Two years ago when I raised my hand to volunteer for the RC Area Schools Facilities Task Force, I had no idea where it would lead. My family and I considered ourselves part of the “Right.” We have worked on conservative campaigns and issues in Pennington County for decades.

Our kids were nearly done with their K-12 education, half of which was spent in private Christian schools. As a product of RC’s public schools and a life-long resident of community, I wanted to learn more about public education instead of just taking the word of others. I wanted to lend an outsider’s conservative perspective and critical thinking into the discussion. I wanted to help craft a solution. What I saw and what I learned through that experience lead me to taking a very public YES role on the upcoming school bond election.

Here’s why, boiled down – It’s the right thing to do.

Yes, here is a Republican who doesn’t want to pay unnecessary taxes. That is NOT what this bond is. For us, it’s a $250/year investment in our kids, in our schools and in the community we call home. We are fortunate to enjoy the 49^th lowest overall tax burden of any state. It’s not 1950 anymore, and our future depends on us being willing to move to the next century. Nothing worth doing is ever free.

Among our core beliefs as Christians is taking care of our neighbors. Private education isn’t an option for all families. What happens if we all abandon public education, tear it down, refuse to fund it? The end result is not pretty.

After two years, I am firm in my conclusions: The need is real. The plan is solid. The time is now. Yes, there have been lots of questions, aptly posed. There are also answers, if you are willing to hear them.

I have been asked what I gain personally from my involvement in this campaign? The same thing I believe we ALL have to gain – adequate healthcare, an environment that appropriately values the important work of educators and public education, and a thriving community that someday, my kids will be able to return home to, so they can live, work and raise their families here like we have been blessed to do.

Please evaluate the facts for yourself at www.voteyes4rsc.com and www.rcasfuture.org and join us in voting YES for Rapid City on Feb. 25.”