Beginning last week through Nov. 3, Park County voters have a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to vote on Park County RE-2 School District issue 3A. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity because members of the facilities committee dedicated over a year of hard work evaluating our current school conditions and developed a master plan. This master plan was incorporated into a grant written to the state-funded BEST (Building Excellent Schools Today) program — a program designed by the State of Colorado to bring outdated or under-equipped rural schools into the 21st century. This BEST grant was selectively awarded to Park County RE-2 and gives the District 50 percent of the roughly $30 million it needs to accomplish this historical feat. If we do not pass this ballot issue, the state matching funds will go away, but our issues will remain.

A successful vote for 3A will enhance education for our children and benefit our community, at a cost of about $4.50 a month for the owner of a $220,000 home. The passage of 3A will provide our students, teachers and staff with the instructional and learning environment that will prepare our children for the future. Ballot issue 3A will allow the district to expand, replace, and remodel the 128-year-old historical elementary building at its current location. It will allow for the upgrade and replacement of the preschool, middle, and high school at the Fairplay campus. The passage of 3A will also provide matching funds for the replacement of the Lake George campus.

I have lived in this community for 14 years and have taught at Silverheels Middle School. As a parent, teacher, and community member, I urge voters to consider this fabulous opportunity for which so many have worked so hard. Please vote yes on 3A.