Pickerington schools deserve levy

On May 2, Pickerington voters will be asked two important questions: What kind of facilities do we want to provide to current and future generations of students, and what image do we want to project to the world outside of Pickerington? By voting “yes” on the May 2 permanent improvements levy, our community answers both of those questions in resoundingly positive ways.

Our schools are in great shape now, and we need to ensure the district has the dedicated financial resources to keep them that way. This is critical to protecting the community’s existing investment. Our students deserve to attend schools that are well maintained, safe, and that have the kinds of technology infrastructure that provide a 21st-century learning environment.

Our student athletes also deserve to have facilities that match those of our peer school districts in the region and state. While this community loves both its high school stadiums, the reality is that they do not reflect the quality of the facilities offered in other regional school districts, such as Gahanna, Dublin, Worthington, Westerville, Hilliard and Canal Winchester. These schools have turf fields and modern playing facilities.

Why does that matter? Is this levy just about high school sports? Absolutely not. When people and companies consider moving into a community, one of the primary things they evaluate is the quality of our schools. Having quality buildings and athletic facilities affects the perception of our community, which has a direct effect on property values.

Please support current and future generations of students, and invest in our community, by voting “yes” on May 2.

Felicia Hence Pickerington