Postcards from the Edge......

Recently, if you are a Stryker Postal Patron, you should have received a postcard in the mail. This postcard was sent to you by the Citizens for Stryker Schools. This committee exists for the sole purpose of getting information to the community. This committee believes in the mission of the School to provide a quality education to all children. They understand that the district is trying to stay fiscally solvent and in trying to fulfill their financial responsibilities, the Administration has requested a 5.8 mils levy. Among the group there are varied opinions...most not necessarily wanting to have increased taxes, but ALL are working to persuade community members to vote YES. This levy affects everyone.

As a committee, we felt that it was our responsibility to get the information out AND to focus on the positives. It doesn't do anyone any good if all we do is talk about everything that is wrong, or all of the reasons that this levy is "bad"! So, the committee chose four things that we do well:

ACADEMICS--These positives affect ALL students from offering All-Day Kindergarten, even though it is not state mandated through College-Prep Chemistry in the High School. (the postcard doesn't afford a lot of room, so we highlighted the important and encompassing pieces). We do a lot of academic things correctly, even in an atmosphere of economic hard times.

ATHLETICS--we are able to provide opportunities for students to participate in team events from Mini-Panthers for the youngest students through Varsity Level Sports in the High School.

EXTRACURRICULARS--from Quiz Bowl for Elementary students to Plays and Concerts through High School.

COMMUNITY PROGRAMS--Through the 21st Century Grant, the school has provided opportunities for students AND the adults of our community to participate in enrichment activities and exploring new areas (such as using iPads, etc.) of learning.


It is this last area that has caused some controversy in the past few days. The Stryker Fire Department and School Administration received calls or heard comments from people who misunderstood what the committee was trying to convey. The Stryker VOLUNTEER Fire Department has always given of their own time with NO compensation from the school. This is one way in which the school works with community entities to give all students the best possible education. During Right to Read Week last year, we were able to add to the children's experience by collaborating with The Stryker Elevator and Short Fencing. Neither of these businesses received compensation. They have a commitment to the Village of Stryker, which includes the children at school. The Stryker Fire Department has that same commitment to the families and individuals who live in the district. Their caring is evident in their willingness to share Fire Safety with all of the children, year after year. I have heard the children say "thank you" at the end of their presentations, but that is the ONLY compensation they receive.

So, the Levy Committee apologizes for any misunderstanding that occurred from reading the postcard. Please know that it was not our intention to mislead anyone. We truly have a passion and a zeal for providing the best education for all children. We wanted to show a balanced approach to that education in a small space. It is our hope that you will not hold that against us or the children of this community.

For the record, we welcome questions! Please ask questions and continue discussions with neighbors. You will find that we all want the best for our town. Together we can make a difference. And I would ask that you continue to support and encourage our VOLUNTEER Fire Department and please vote YES in November.