Pilot editorial: Look beyond emotions when voting on levy

It’s been a tumultuous few weeks within the Whitefish School District following a recommendation to reassign a top high school administrator. The plan drew the ire of many parents, students and staff, and those emotions boiled over at the April school board meeting and in the ensuing days as word spread around town.

But last week, the district changed course with its recommendation and Jackie Fuller accepted the opportunity to stay in her current position as assistant principal at the high school. Based on comments provided to the Pilot, it appears that all parties involved in this dispute are ready to turn the page and move forward in a positive direction.

We hope voters within the school district will do the same when heading to the polls Tuesday to consider approving two building reserve levies. Don’t let the clamor of the recent personnel issues drive your conscious when deciding on whether to fund necessary upkeep at all of our schools.

The district is asking for authority to levy up to $700,000 annually over seven years. Funds will go toward security upgrades, technology enhancements, parking lot resurfacing, new carpet, roof repairs, paint, maintenance to playground equipment and other projects that both students and teachers will notice every day. These funds will help keep our new high school looking new for years to come. They will also help the district to plan and save for long-range capital improvements — something every homeowner knows is a necessity.

We encourage you to get out and vote next Tuesday or send in your mail-in ballot. And whatever you decide, make that choice with a clear mind.

Polls will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, May 3 at the Whitefish School District Office in the Whitefish Middle School.