Lots of reasons to support District 21 referendum

The District 21 referendum will ensure safer entrances, provide much needed air-conditioning and prepare the spaces for full-day kindergarten.

Living in 2018 means understanding the truth about the dangers posed at schools. School shootings happen every year. Making secure vestibules, expanding cameras and improving lighting will tighten the protection of our children.

Additionally, temperatures at the start and end of the school year are predictably hot. During those hot months, students and staff at my son's school take turns with other classes to use a single air-conditioned space to cool down.

If we want to support the mission of our schools, then we should provide the necessary conditions for students and staff to thrive. As a former teacher, focus is a real challenge when the temperatures rise. Countless hours of learning are lost, but we can and should prevent this.

Finally, research points to the importance of early learning. Partial day kindergarten exists because of limited funding, not because it benefits the child. We have the chance to make our schools full-day kindergarten ready now.

I have two kids, but I also understand the economic role schools play for our communities. Think about one of the top considerations for prospective homebuyers - the schools. If you haven't already, take a look at your cost for this referendum (less than $5 per month for a home valued at $200,000).

A "yes" vote for the CCSD21 referendum is an investment worth making.

Gautham Kaveti

Arlington Heights