Letter to the Editor:

By now you have seen the results of the Middle School Bond Referendum. Without getting into too much detail, we didn’t get the 60% approval needed to move forward with the new STC Middle School project at this time. While we are disappointed with the results, the reality is that a majority of districts require multiple attempts to pass a bond project of this magnitude.

I want to take a moment to personally thank all of you who have supported this project and have taken the time to educate our families and the community of our needs. I have personally never seen so much staff-wide support and enthusiasm for a project. Furthermore, I would like to recognize our middle school staff. Although we are bummed about the result, I know you will continue to push forward and continue doing what is best for students regardless of your building’s less-than-ideal conditions.

I realize it won’t be easy, but I would like to remind all STC staff members to remain professional and respectful in your interactions on social media and in the public. Our community – especially those against the project – will be watching to see how we behave. I have complete faith in our staff that we will the high road and remain true to our district principles and core values.

One of my favorite quotes comes from a book called The Leadership Challenge. The quote reads as follows: “Those who are optimistic about life are far more likely to be successful than those who view the current events through the lens of a pessimist. This means that your outlook on the future, and on life in general, strongly influences you and your group’s success.”

You have my word that we will regroup from this setback and our district will emerge stronger than ever. If we continue to have a positive mindset and focus on we can control, we will do great things for our community. The children of South Tama County deserve better, and we will not rest until our goal of meeting the needs of every student is accomplished.

Dr. Jared Smith

STC Superintendent

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