The time is now to support Big Hollow

Time is running out to get Big Hollow School District back on track.

In fall 2006, a referendum to balance the books was rejected by the community. One of the effects of this failed referendum was a cut in the bus service. Now, like cattle in a stockyard, the students are required to endure wait times in a holding area for up to 45 minutes before or after school.

Forecasting more dire consequences as a result of the financial imbalance, the school went out again in spring 2007 for another operational-rate referendum. To ease the burden on local taxpayers, the amount requested was about half of what was asked six months earlier.

This too was rejected by the community. The result: massive and devastating program cuts, a hiring freeze and overcrowded classrooms. Then came the public outcry and critical media coverage that reported Big Hollow as having the highest class sizes and the lowest-paid teachers in all of Lake County - a dubious distinction to be sure.

On Feb. 5, the community gets yet another opportunity to help its children. With an out-of-pocket cost to most local homeowners of around $32 a month, it appears to be a reasonable investment. Especially when compared to the thousands of dollars that will be shaved off the value of our homes should it fail -- again.

I also shudder to think what will happen to the quality of education that my children will receive should the community miss this opportunity and further cuts are announced. I urge you to do the right thing and vote yes - do it for the children, your home and your community.

Steven Lanham Round Lake

chairman,

Big Hollow referendum committee