Career ed, gym would benefit from bond

This Nov. 5, the Wasco community will have the opportunity to vote on Measure D, a bond that would bring significant changes to the Wasco Union High School District. The measure has garnered support from many educators and residents.

"School safety is one of the primary focuses of this bond measure," Wasco Union High School District Superintendent Kevin Tallon explained. "There are various areas that are unsafe when it comes to temperature and ventilation due to a lack of air conditioning. The bond would allow the district to build a new gymnasium with air conditioning, ventilation and safer locker rooms."

The Wasco High School gymnasium, which is over 70 years old, has never had air conditioning. With Wasco's temperature exceeding 90 degrees for more than a third of the year.

The bond also would provide funds to upgrade Career Technical Education classrooms and secure the west side of the campus with fencing. The ag farm does not have restrooms or a classroom, and a successful bond would help relocate it to a recently purchased parcel of land closer to town. Bond funds would also allow for new classrooms that support CTE pathways such as construction, public safety and public health.

Tallon acknowledges that any increased tax burden to a homeowner should be carefully considered. "It is a $35.4 million bond that will cost a homeowner $30 per $100,000 of assessed value. So, for a homeowner who purchased a home for $300,000, the bond would cost $7.50 per month."

"This bond, if passed, would allow us to offer Wasco students the same types of facilities you see almost everywhere else throughout the county."

Tallon also highlighted the positive impact of a previous bond measure in 2008 that allowed for the transformation of about 70% of the campus. The district believes Measure D would have a similar effect. "The Board of Trustees passed a resolution to run this bond after gathering extensive community feedback through surveys, including input from parents," he said.

Wasco High School Principal Rusvel Prado shared his excitement about the potential changes, saying, "If Measure D is passed, it will be a game-changer for Wasco High School. I am incredibly excited about the potential improvements it will bring to enhance student safety, provide access to resources and prepare our students for successful careers. This bond represents a significant investment in the future of our school, ensuring that our students and staff have the support they need to thrive in a safe, modern and dynamic learning environment."

Tallon emphasized, "It's a need, and we want to share that need with the community. Ultimately, it's their decision, but this would greatly enhance the educational experience for Wasco students for decades."

The last day to register to vote for the Nov. 5 election is Monday, Oct. 21. To register, visit registertovote.ca.gov.