SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash. - The preliminary results of this week's special election are in and a resolution for upgrades in the East Valley School District is not passing. The resolution is failing 63% to 37%. That means plans to build a new performing arts center, upgrade equipment and install new safety features are on hold.
The main message from the district is that they need to do a better job engaging parents. 46% of parents who were registered to vote actually voted. The Superintendent told KHQ Local News that if they are truly engaged that he would like to see parent voter turnout of 80% or better. Superintendent John Glenewinkel said this failed vote will not affect the quality of the education, but he said the biggest problem is if something happens, like a pipe burst or a roofing need, all of that is taken directly out of the general fund. It will not go toward students in the classroom.
This will have no impact on day to day operations as Glenewinkel said they will continue offering all day kindergarten and not charging for athletics. As for the question of it will be on the ballot in the future, Glenewinkel said it might be, but that is a board decision. The Superintendent told KHQ that their focus needs to be on engaging the community, particularly parents. If they can get parents engaged he believes something can pass down the road.
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