Facts support investment in schools

I'm writing to express my support on the District 86 referendum for improvements to Hinsdale South and Central High Schools. I'm a father of two kids (8 and 2) and I moved to this town because of the schools.

It's been 57 years since this district passed a referendum. These schools have 50-year-old boilers, classrooms are falling behind and the security systems are totally inadequate. Also, programs like wrestling, football, cheer, and the National Honor Society have all sustained cuts. Growing up, my high school experience was the best time of my life and now my kids are staring at their future and it looks pretty bleak.

I've tried to look at the other side and envision myself as an older man. In 25 years when my kids have started their own families, what would I do if this vote came up and I lived in the district? I'd look hard at the facts.

The fact is our tax rates are still significantly lower than some of our state's best school districts (Northfield, Lake Park, Lyons Township). The fact is my property value will decline if I don't vote yes. Would it be worth me paying an additional $52 a month to preserve my property value by $75,000 to $100,000 for when I go to sell it in five years? That's just smart investing.

It's investing not only in my financial future but it's also investing in the next generation's future.

Seth Wotherspoon

Hinsdale