Kiwanis of Lafayette thanks Dr. Donald W. Aguillard, Superintendent of Schools for the Lafayette Parish School System, for speaking to us today.
Dr. Aguillard spoke to us today regarding the proposed ½ cent sales tax which is up for vote on the April 29, 2017 ballot. Dr. Aguillard described in detail the historical overuse of temporary metal outdoor classrooms throughout the district. Rather than expanding on existing classroom space, the district has, over the years, accumulated more than 420 of these temporary classrooms.
Many of these buildings have been in service for 30 years or longer, some even date back to the Second World War. These buildings are in poor condition, are difficult to maintain, and are noisy, all of which are not conducive to educating the children of our parish. The proposed half cent sales tax will be dedicated to the removal of more than half of these temporary structures and replacement with new permanent additions to existing schools. All of the elementary schools in the parish are set for removal. The tax will expire on its terms after 10 years.
While Kiwanis of Lafayette does not take any sides on matters involving contested elections, we provide this information to voters to foster the Fourth Object of Kiwanis “To develop, by precept and example, a more intelligent, aggressive, and serviceable citizenship.”
Thank you Dr. Aguillard for speaking to us today about this issue. Voters are encouraged to go to the polls and make your voices heard on April 29th.
#KidsNeedKiwanis