Dear Bowdle School Families,
As we look to the future of our children’s education and the continued growth of our community, it is important to carefully consider the decisions that will impact both today’s students and those of future generations. One such decision is the Joint Powers Agreement (JPA) with the Edmunds Central School District for our middle and high school (grades 6 – 12) students. This partnership presents a valuable opportunity for our community, and the Bowdle Education Association (BEA) asks for your support in moving forward with this agreement—while also continuing to prioritize and support our local Bowdle Elementary School.
Why the Joint Powers Agreement Makes Sense
As many of you know, the landscape of rural education has changed dramatically in recent years. By working together with Edmunds Central, we ensure that both districts remain strong and viable in the long term. This agreement helps our school district to weather the challenges of declining rural populations, tight budgets, and reduced funding from the state while continuing to deliver a top-notch education to our students.
Why Bowdle Elementary School Still Matters
While the JPA focuses on improving educational opportunities for middle and high school students, it is equally important that we continue to support Bowdle Elementary School, where our youngest learners start their academic journey. By continuing to send our elementary-aged children to Bowdle School, we ensure that our school remains open, thriving, and capable of offering quality, personalized education.
Stability and Continuity
It’s important to consider the stability and continuity that Bowdle Elementary School provides. Our students have the opportunity to grow and develop in a familiar environment with teachers and peers, who they, and you, already know and have formed relationships with. This stability is crucial for elementary-aged children, as it helps them build trust and confidence in their education.
Maintaining Local Control and Decision-Making
Local control over our school means that decisions about our children’s education are made by people who know our community and understand our needs. If elementary-aged children leave for other districts, we risk losing local influence over the school and the ability to shape policies that benefit our kids. A strong, engaged elementary school system helps ensure that we have a voice in the decisions that impact our children’s futures.
Investment in the Future of Our Community
By keeping our elementary school in Bowdle, we are making an investment in the future of our community. Strong local schools are the foundation of thriving communities. Your child’s success and the success of the Bowdle School District directly impact the overall well-being of Bowdle. When we work together to strengthen our school, we strengthen our community.
We are confident that this Joint Powers Agreement will provide long-lasting benefits for both the Bowdle and Edmunds Central School Districts. We encourage you to support this important initiative. We are incredibly proud of the work being done at Bowdle School, and we want to continue working alongside you to ensure that your child receives the best education possible. Thank you for your trust, your involvement, and your continued support of Bowdle School. Together, we can provide our children with the bright future they deserve. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to your child’s teacher.
Sincerely,
Bowdle Education Association