What do students think about the referendum?

After a dozen public forums and numerous meetings throughout Noblesville, the Noblesville Schools Board of School Trustees has voted to take a $63.6 million building project, and a $5 million operational referendum, to the voters of Noblesville Township in the May 4 primary election.

If passed, already-capped property taxes must be increased. Otherwise, teachers will be nixed and funds will be further cut. The news is causing quite a commotion within the community, but what do students think about it?

Senior Nathaniel Staggs

“I’d like to think that I’ve built a bond of friendship with many of my teachers, to the point where I can talk to them about not only   schoolwork, but my life outside of school. We, as voters, have their livelihoods in our hands, and I personally think that a simple ‘yes’ on a ballot is worth the time. I know many students think that they’ll never use anything they’ve learned these past four years ever again, but the truth is, we didn’t learn the quadratic formula, Avagadro’s number, or the Spanish “passive se” so much as we learned how to learn. Honestly, as cliché as it sounds, my teachers have taught me far more than just their subject matter. I think a simple vote is the least I can do for them.”

Junior Ashley Wilson

“I truly believe that this is a referendum worth voting for. It isn’t asking for money to build more athletic centers or buy better homecoming decorations, it’s asking for money to keep teachers who deserve their jobs and keep classroom size at a manageable level, not at 35-40 kids in a classroom. Honestly, if this doesn’t pass, I don’t know what the schools will have to do next. Over half of the so-called nonessential programs have to fund themselves as of next year and many more, such as sixth grade band, choir and strings, as well as middle school, may very well be cut all together.”

Senior Austin May

“Although I will no longer be in school, I want the kids below me to have the same fulfilling experiences I had in the Noblesville school  system, and if that means increasing taxes to avoid staff and funding cuts, so be it.”

For more information about the referendum, visit www.educatenoblesville.org.

Photos provided by students

NHS grad runs for school board

Evan Elliott, a 2009 NHS graduate, has recently announced he is running for a position on the Noblesville School Board. The election will be held on May 4.

Mill Stream: What inspired you to run for election in the Noblesville School Board?

Evan Elliott: I have been inspired by the concerns and ideas of teachers, students, parents, and community members. Right now, we are facing a time of great growth, and these concerns and ideas must be brought forth by an energetic voice who is ready and willing to work hard for Noblesville Schools. I have a very strong interest in preserving the high quality of education that I received just a year ago.

MS: What do you hope to achieve if chosen?

EE: I hope to create more transparency between the school board and the community. We are facing a pivotal point in the future of Noblesville Schools and every voice must be heard. I also look to work more closely with teachers to make sure that they receive fair treatment during state budget cuts. One of my main goals will also be to work with YOU, the students, so that your voice is not lost among the conversation.

MS: How has your experience as a student at NHS prepared you for a position on the Noblesville School Board?

EE: I have worked my way through the Noblesville school system in its current state. This is a great advantage, not only for the schools, but for the community. I have walked the halls of each school, meeting friends, acquaintances and administrators. I know how to relate to today’s average teenager and am familiar with the concerns and ideas of students and their parents.

MS: What do you have to offer as a new member of the school board if elected?

EE: First and foremost, I offer a common sense approach to the problems faced by Noblesville Schools. I want to bring my everyday experiences and those of the community to the school board. If money is appropriated in large amounts, it should be for the sake of education. If someone has a concern, I will listen. If a group of students are struggling, let’s personally pinpoint the problem and work towards a solution. In today’s society, too many people take a scientific approach into the educational environment. My motto: Serve the community, Listen to each voice, and Protect the interests of hard working students, parents, and teachers, even in tough economic times.

MS: What are you doing to ensure votes?

EE: I will be holding a fundraiser in the coming weeks so that I can meet the community and share my thoughts. Ultimately, voters will choose who they think will best represent their voice on the board. If voters believe that my perspective is best suited for the community, I would greatly appreciate their vote on May 4th.

MS: Why did you decide to run?

EE: I have decided to run because I believe in the school system. The proposed referendum foreshadows an exciting time of growth for Noblesville, and I am enthusiastic and ready to work alongside everyone involved in the process.

MS: How will your prior experience in student government help you if elected?

EE: My experience as Student Body President was invaluable. I managed a small budget, planned events, worked with other officers, and maintained close contact with teachers and school administrators. This was truly an inside look into Noblesville High School, which I believe could serve as a great insight for the board.