Support Letters

SANDUSKY REGISTER LETTER: Get Margaretta on track
Friday, April 9, 2010 1:08 AM EDT

Get Margaretta Back on Track

Past letters have been published against Margaretta Schools and Mr. Kurt using buzz words like “misuse of funds” and “inappropriate spending.” However, there are no facts or specifics to back up those allegations. Those misleading opinions do nothing to move the school district forward.

In our research, the Board of Education and Mr. Kurt have done much to be fiscally responsible. They consolidated the elementary buildings saving the district $300,000 annually, consolidated bus routes, and positions have been eliminated through attrition. The Board and Mr. Kurt have been forced to be fiscally responsible because of drastic cuts in state and federal funding. These cuts along with no new money from our community in the last 12 years make the levy passage essential!

We have heard complaints about adding a gymnasium to the elementary building. Why can’t everyone be happy our students have a wonderful facility for physical education classes, programs, and other athletic activities? Nearly every neighboring school district (Clyde, Bellevue, PC, Fremont, Perkins) is building or planning new facilities. The citizens in those communities have stood up and done what is in the best interest of their children despite the current economic climate.

Decisions Mr. Kurt and the Board have made have been made after much research and careful consideration. Mr. Kurt has a vested interest in the success of our school district. His children currently attend or have graduated from Margaretta and his home is here. We are certain he only does what is best and right for this school district, even if it is not popular.

We are saddened that our district is so divided. It’s time to put aside hard feelings, grudges, and politics and do what is right for our children. We support the upcoming levy 100% and encourage every voter to do the same!

Rod & Kendra Smith
511 Main St., Box 563
Castalia, OH 44824

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To The Margaretta Board of Education,

I would just like to take the time to express my gratitude to Margaretta Schools. I grew up in Castalia, started at Bogart Elementary and graduated from Margaretta in 1986. The education I received was extremely valuable to me. After graduating, I attended OSU and graduated with a BS in Human Nutrition, then went on to graduate from the Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine. Today, I have a successful medical practice in Massachusetts where I completed my residency.

I will never forget the years I spent at Margaretta. I made many wonderful friends, was involved in numerous activities offered through the school and received an education that allowed me to become successful today. All of this was important to me when I was in school, as I am sure, is just as important to the students of Margaretta today.

I truly hope the community sees the value of the Margaretta School System today as I valued it when I was in school. I would like to take the time to thank the community, who when I was in school, valued the students education enough to support the needs of the school. There is nothing more important than providing a well-rounded education. Hopefully students today will continue at Margaretta with the same benefits that I had, graduate with an excellent education and have the opportunity to accomplish anything they choose.

Good Luck.....and GO BEARS!!!!

Dana Smith-Nasiff
Margaretta 1986
The Ohio State University 1991
The Ohio College of Podiatric Medicine 1995

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Margaretta Board of Education:

First of all, good luck with your upcoming levy. I am writing to offer my support. Although there is not much I can do living half a world away, I would like everyone to know how grateful I am to the Margaretta School district. My time at MHS was the best of my life; my education at Margaretta helped prepare me for a career in architecture.

From tail-gating and leading cheers at the games to competing in the district golf competition, my fondest memories are at Margaretta. Courses I took from Mr. Eschels and Mr. Denman helped influence my decision to pursue a career in architecture. Their courses were engaging, fun, and interesting.

When schools are forced to make cuts, extra-curriculars and electives are usually the first things to go. If this were the case when I was in school; I would be the second thing to go! I definitely value my education but there needs to be a good balance in life. Art and sports were the things that kept me going and helped me expand my skill sets and social skills. (I am still working on the social skills) Don’t voters understand that these are the activities and courses that get kids through school! I can’t imagine attending a school absent of these.

I came to Margaretta my junior year when school spirit was fantastic and student achievement was high. It was the best move I ever made. I would hate to see that school spirit and student achievement leave and take high achieving students to other school districts. You have to go through the valley to get to the top! Don’t stop pushing forward for success!

Best of luck. Go Bears!

Austin Poe
Margaretta - Class of 2004
The Ohio State University – BS Arch Class of 2008
University of Hawaii – D Arch Class of 2011