Supporters reacted with enthusiastic applause when it was announced by Board of Education members and campaign co-chairs Colleen Moidu and Mollie Lynch that Issue 8 had passed.
On Tuesday, November 5, voters in the Westerville City School District approved Issue #8, a combined bond issue and operating levy. “This reflects a vote of confidence in the district’s ability to deliver on its promises,” said Dr. John Kellogg, Superintendent of Schools. He thanked the community for its continued support, along with the Our Community, Our Schools committee, and volunteers and staff who dedicated themselves to passing Issue #8. “Campaign co-chairs Colleen Moidu and Mollie Lynch, and their steering committee, did a phenomenal job getting the word out about what Issue #8 will provide to our schools and the students we serve.”
More than two years was spent engaging the community, staff, students, and families in discussions about the future of their schools. The plan approved by voters reflects the collective thoughts and priorities of more than 2,000 individuals who participated in the process.
Benefits to students and the community include:
- Maintaining teaching staff levels as enrollment grows to better manage class sizes, allowing for personalized attention for students;
- Allowing more pupils to attend schools closer to their homes and neighborhoods with the construction of a new elementary and new middle school;
- Enhancing safety and security features at all schools to keep students and staff safe;
- Addressing overall conditions at our oldest schools, ensuring equipment and systems can support a technologically advanced education that allows graduates to be more competitive in college and the workplace; and
Ensuring middle and high school students have access to courses that explore high-demand careers, such as engineering, business, logistics, and the healthcare profession.