Voters in Bowling Green face an important decision this election season, and, as a Bowling Green resident who also happens to work at the largest employer in Wood County, I am compelled to publicly share why I am supporting the Bowling Green City Schools levy on November 7.
For years, and on a nearly daily basis, I have seen the power of K-12 school systems in determining where employees live: where they buy a house, where they pay taxes, where they dine, where they shop. This isn’t simply a Bowling Green City Schools issue; I believe it is an economic issue for all of Bowling Green.
Our city is an energized place to live and work. Community leaders, elected officials, volunteers and citizens have worked hard to build a thriving community that is walkable, safe and local, with family-focused opportunities to engage with the city throughout the year. Still, the single greatest factor I so often see employees weigh in determining their residency is the K-12 school system.
The facilities matter. For example, BGSU has recently completed a series of renovations and construction across its campus, updating many facilities. This fall, BGSU welcomed one of the largest and the most academically prepared classes in its history. The Wall Street Journal ranked BGSU the No. 1 university in Ohio – public or private – for the student experience.
And, more students than ever are completing their degree, with record retention and student success rates. I absolutely see a connection between the learning environment and enrollment, and I believe the same is true in K-12.
Education is a public good – essential to a healthy democracy and vibrant economy. K-12 education is, in particular, the very foundation of our community’s future. As a citizen of Bowling Green, I believe a vote for the school system is a vote for all of Bowling Green, and that’s why I’m voting yes.
Rodney K. Rogers
President, BGSU
