Letter to the Editor: 'Don't Vote Lose-Lose'

Mokena Patch is accepting letters to the editor, which will be posted on the site as received.

The following letter was submitted to Patch by Mokena resident Kathleen Kuper. The views shared are opinions belonging solely to the writer.

We could encourage those who support the referendum and those who are against it to share your views in a letter to the editor. We will post any letters we receive, as long as they are roughly 300 words and adhere to Patch's Terms of Use.

Please submit letters to Mokena Patch editor Caroline Evans, caroline.evans@patch.com.

How will a no vote impact our community? A “no” vote will reduce the value of my home a lot more than it will raise my taxes. Ask any parent if they would pay $300 more in taxes to move into a district with a high performing school? Parents, did you put quality of local schools as your number one factor in choosing Mokena schools? I did. Disappointed? Iʼm not.

Mokena has attracted and retained high quality teachers at pay rates considerably lower than surrounding school districts. Why? Because teachers are attracted to communities that appreciate their dedication, support their efforts and are committed to a quality education for students. Mokena has a long history and reputation of being a community where parents, teachers and administration work together in partnership to bring the highest quality of education to students. If this referendum fails, it is more than the failure of bringing in crucial revenue. It is the sad demise of this long-standing partnership. Donʼt believe for one minute that a crack in this partnership wonʼt have a negative impact on the entire community. Our kids and teachers are the most precious commodity. If this referendum fails, what can we offer new teachers, and what are we saying to those who have dedicated years of service to our kids?

A classroom of 35 students.

A salary significantly lower than surrounding districts.

A history of firing teachers with 10 years of service to Mokena.

This is why I believe a “no” vote is a lose-lose proposition.

• Homeowners lose
• Parents lose
• Teachers lose
• Kids lose

I ask you to look into your heart. Will you not sacrifice $1/day so that our students continue thriving in class, not just surviving?