Once the board can put the infamous structure behind it, hopefully within 30 days or less, it can regain its focus on students, teachers and education. The number of education-related issues deserving the board's attention are numerous. It's high time the board got past the building issue and moved on to long-term strategic planning. Planning that could include how to address the need for more or improved elementary schools, improving test scores, decreasing drop-out rates, expanding course offerings and increasing student participation in music programs, among other issues. Ottawa is on a small, but steady growth trend.
Nothing brings families to a community like good schools.
Ottawa has good schools, but they could be so much better. Imagine families clamoring to move into our community because of the extraordinary schools. It can happen, but not without a concerted effort from teachers, parents, the school board and community members. The city is preparing for housing development. The school board needs to be proactive and be ahead of the potential growth with top-notch schools that ensures our community's bright future and quality of life.