Former HP Councilman Backs Referendum

The following was written and submitted by Pete Koukos.

As an office holder in Highland Park for 34 years, including three terms as a Highland Park City Councilman, 18 years on the Park District of Highland Park as a commissioner and president, Moraine Township Assessor, and parent of district students, I, like all Highland Parkers, have a vested interest in the future of our school system and the future of our community. My kids grew up in a neighborhood school environment here in Highland Park. Certainly, neighborhood schools are desirable, but the issue today is that this concept is no longer feasible.

If it were feasible, I would prefer two middle schools, but since it is too expensive, I find the Middle School Campus a reasonable alternative. I do like the idea of the teaming with 150 students assigned to six teachers. I see the social, emotional, and educational advantages of this arrangement. I have faith in the Police and the other administrative bodies to work out a traffic solution that will be palatable to the neighborhood and those commuting to the campus. Finally, it is the most economically sound option of all competing proposals.

I know, trust, and have confidence in many of the individuals who have given hundreds of hours to reviewing the proposals and coming to a conclusion...I have trust in their research.

I was on the Park District Board when we first acquired the land and building from the School District for $10. Whatever happens, residents of Highland Park should not be asked to pay twice for this land, but we should all work together to make this Middle School Campus a reality.

Vote YES for our community and for our children.