On-line straw poll evaluates school plan

To the Editor: The Board of Education has decided on a renovation/construction plan for the high school at a cost of $71.5 million-plus, and a yet-to-be determined amount for an elementary school plan. It would be best, of course, if we had a plan that a large percentage of Sparta citizens felt was the best option and could support in the referendum. Some weeks ago a writer in the Sparta Independent suggested we have a straw vote so the board could get feedback from the town. If the feedback is mainly positive, then the board could proceed confidently with its plans. If not, changes could be considered to make the plan appeal to more voters. It would also seem helpful to provide an easy method to gather comments and suggestions from residents and make them available to the board and for all to consider and, if desired, respond. From such dialog might come a better understanding of the options. A new Web site in town, www.spartaforum.com, which I manage, is designed to accommodate such a straw vote and public dialog. On it have been posted a vote question on the board’s plan (yes or no) and a description of the plan, using data obtained from Sparta schools. All may participate in the straw vote and post comments, opinions and suggestions. Perhaps the board could make postings and enter into a public dialog so we can all be better informed. It is planned to keep the voting and posting active until the referendum. James Root Sparta