As we move through the process of preparation for having all our K/8 students at Driftwood next year, there have been many valuable ideas that have come from the surveys and other public input. There are concerns, too. In an effort to clarify and explain some issues, here are some frequently asked questions:
How are the students reacting to the move?
There is some sadness about leaving the nice school in Langlois, but the kids are becoming excited about coming together in a new and improved Driftwood School. The main question is: “Who is my teacher going to be?” Driftwood students will see more new teachers than the Blanco kids, whose teachers are going with them to Port Orford. There will be joint activities this spring to help familiarize the Blanco students with the building, and meet new friends and teachers. Most of the students have friends at Driftwood through community contact and common electives, and nearly two-thirds of the Blanco student body lives closer to Port Orford than Langlois so have had more of a chance to socialize outside of school.
Is the District sensitive to the feeling of loss in the Langlois community?
You bet, however in the excitement and rush to get things ready it may be that it has not been communicated strongly enough. Langlois and its schools have rich traditions and history that make the closing of Blanco a painful loss. The Langlois parents are very involved in the school and many donate time and money to make the school a special place for kids to learn. As in Port Orford, parents and grandparents attended school in Langlois, and the community roots go very deep. If anyone has pictures or information on the history of the town and its schools, please share and we will put together something for the communities.
Whatever happened to the idea of a single site school district at the Pacific High School location?
It still remains a goal and part of the Board’s strategic plan. In the late 1950’s there were funds available to build a K/8 school at Pacific, but it was decided to return the money to taxpayers. Since then the District has undergone many changes in structure, most recently separating the K/8 students to take advantage of the small and rural schools funding formula that for years brought well over a half-million dollars into the budget each year, There has been no way to offset the loss of these funds and build a new school. Sale of District property was considered to finance construction, but this did not come to fruition. Major investment in the single site goal has already taken place with the development of a water treatment/supply system designed with the capacity to serve another school at PHS. The goal of the single site will be reached, but for now is delayed by inadequate funding, and declining enrollment projections.
Why isn’t the District taking steps to move to a single site right now?
Money. At this time it would require construction of a school with 13 classrooms, a gym, cafeteria, library, playground, and parking. A very conservative estimate would be 6 to 8 million dollars, and one to two years to complete. Passage of a levy, although possible, seems unlikely in this economic climate and with our local demographics of low income and retiree populations who would have difficulty supporting the added taxes in the voting booth. If enrollment projections are correct, it would not be in the best interest of the District at this time to invest in a facility that, in several years, may have only one-half the student population of today. Additionally, the small school funding formula will still provide the school district with significant funds for years to come, (over $300,000.00 next year). The volatility of the state revenue sources makes every federal and state program and grant absolutely vital to 2CJ.
Why is the District putting taxpayer money into Driftwood School when it may be closed down in a few years?
Kids. The money being spent is for the safety, well-being, and instructional needs of our students, and most of the projects would need to be done even if we were not consolidating the schools.
The failing boiler heating system would cost over $200,000 to repair, and the school would still have outdated, inadequate, carbon producing, and very expensive heat. There are much less expensive, clean and energy efficient systems available with government conservation incentives that will reduce the cost by almost a third. Not only that, but it is projected that energy and fuel oil savings from investing in a new system and high energy lighting would pay for itself in 3 to 5 years.
The boiler chimney at the school is very old, becoming unsafe, and must be demolished. If the boiler system was repaired it would require replacement with a very costly stainless steel stack. A new system would require no chimney, and is non-polluting. Electrical upgrades are needed for the heating system and additional receptacles in the classrooms for computers.
The playshed must be upgraded to provide the students with a safe, clean, and warm place for rainy day recess, activities, and for physical education. It is poorly lit, unheated, and needs to be insulated. Moving all of the PE equipment will require additional storage that will include small changing areas for the middle school students.
- The student restrooms need to be remodeled with low flow fixtures, tile, and paint.
- The playground has fallen into disrepair and must be upgraded. A committee is researching equipment and grants to help with this project.
- Windows need to be replaced with energy efficient units. This is an expensive project and will probably be done in stages.
- Additional parking will be needed. Again, an expensive job, but preparation can begin.
- A covered bus drop-off shelter at the north entrance would keep our students dry while waiting for the bus, and as they load and unload.
What’s this we hear about beautification of the school? How can the District afford these “extras?”
Landscaping, painting, interior/exterior touches will need to come primarily through donations and volunteer labor. There are already 20 pledged volunteers and many more out there who have not yet committed. Work parties will be organized throughout the summer to help with various projects.
The District may be able to help in a small way financially, but funds will be focused on the essentials. There has been a donation of $7500.00 to help with the playfield, and the Port Orford Rotary is making work at the school a summer service priority.
Are students from Langlois going to have longer bus rides than this year?
The kids will be boarding the bus about 5 minutes earlier, and the students north of Langlois will have a longer ride to Driftwood. The 55 or so students who live in or near Port Orford and have been bussed to Blanco over the years will not have to make that trip. It has been difficult for parents to understand that their children have to ride the bus all the way to Blanco when they live just blocks from Driftwood.
What about middle school athletics?
The same sports programs will be offered, and the Red Gym will continue to be our home court.
Transportation will not be impacted because busses have taken Driftwood athletes to and from
practice on the regular and activity routes. There will just be a few more riders.
What is going to happen to Blanco School?
Appraisals have been conducted on all District property, and sale or lease options are being
considered by the Board. The building will be secured, and steps taken to prevent deterioration and continue security at the school. Heaters and dehumidifiers will be used, and the ADT alarm system will be maintained.
What is going to happen to class sizes?
We will still be the envy of most of the Districts in the State. The largest classes will hover around 25 students, some with less. At this time, there is only one blended classroom planned.
How many people are going to lose their jobs?
Unfortunately, it will be necessary to lay off one licensed, 3 classified employees along with half an administrator position. The retirement incentive helped save positions, and situations could arise that would allow the return of the laid off folks. We are hopeful.