I support public schools because I believe schools define communities and communities define schools.
The arguments for a consolidated elementary are 1) a single building is more efficient, 2) there is no evidence that larger elementary schools are worse than smaller ones, 3) a new consolidated school will draw residents to BG, and 4) we are now so desperate that we must pass something.
Regarding argument 1, if saving money was the main factor, we could renovate the neighborhood schools for about 10-percent less. Regarding 2, a lack of negative evidence is not the same as positive evidence. Seven to ten classrooms at each grade in a factory zone is not as good as two or three classrooms in a neighborhood or near a park. No kids walking or biking to school is worse than some kids doing so, and all parents sitting in idling cars is worse than some parents standing around talking to each other. Mostly, the potential for an elementary building being the center of community activity in a neighborhood is better than the elimination of that potential. Regarding 3, I’m not convinced that a consolidated elementary on the city’s outskirts, surrounded by the smell and noise of factories, will compete with elementary schools surrounded by countryside in abutting district. Given housing prices, a consolidated school at the proposed location may make it more difficult to compete for residents with Otsego and Eastwood, as well as Perrysburg. Finally, putting housing developments or apartments buildings on the current elementary parcels only benefits the same real estate millionaires who have worked hard over the years to undermine schools. Regarding 4, our desperation began with the election of officials who have cut state taxes only to dump costs on communities. This levy does nothing to address the bigger problems that continue in Columbus.
I don’t support the levy. While it may be more efficient, a consolidated elementary will cause intangible harms to morale and aspirations. Its long-term bleeding of the city will lead to continued erosion of the school system. And, giving up on Bowling Green’s neighborhoods is essentially giving up on Bowling Green.
I will vote yes for a levy as soon as there is a plan that is good for current and future students, and good for the community we all share.
Rick Busselle
Bowling Green
