Local News
School bond could play role in economic development
DUNCAN — If the Duncan Public School bond issue passes, the district may absorb some unfilled positions but could improve the appeal to the business market.
The school district is aiming for a $118 million bond issue, which will create a three building elementary campus, renovate the Duncan High School, and build and improve extra-curricular facilities.
Debra Burch, Duncan Chamber of Commerce and Industry president, said, “The bond issue hasn’t been reported to bring jobs in or for jobs to be lost.”
Burch said the school district won’t be laying people off if the bond issue passes. While the district won’t need as many elementary administrators, the plan is to not replace some principals when they choose to retire.
This has already started happening. When Mona Evans moved from Will Rogers Pre-Kindergarten Center to be principal of Emerson Elementary, following Eva Spaulding’s retirement, Plato Principal John Millirons was put in charge of the two pre-kindergarten sites.
After JoAnn Pierce retired in December 2009 from Mark Twain Elementary, Evans took on the task of being the building principal. Carol Phipps was brought in to be assistant principal for Mark Twain. If the bond passes, Phipps will remain as assistant principal; but if the bond fails, Phipps will be promoted to principal.
“The school district is talking about the efficiency of the staff,” Burch said. “As far as I know, it’s only going to affect the administration and will happen with normal retirements.”
Lyle Roggow, Duncan Area Economic Development Foundation president, said the bond issue, if passed, could make Duncan more attractive to businesses looking for a community to do business in.
Roggow said prospective businesses look at several things before determining where to set up. Those things include hospitals, community recreation and schools.
“Schools are a major critical mass,” Roggow said.
When Roggow takes business owners around Duncan, the Duncan Middle School is usually on his tour. He said the school reflects the importance of education to Duncan residents. Roggow said the three-building elementary campus would do the same thing and would make a good first impression.
“It shows our community supports education,” Roggow said. “It’s critical to put out a positive image.”
Burch said she isn’t sure what kind of effect the board would have, but it could be more attractive for people or companies looking to relocate.
“In my opinion, the schools are what people look at,” Burch said. “They make a difference. I know it’s a concern.
“When it comes to economic development, people like to look at the schools to determine where they want to live.”
— Derrick Miller is a reporter for The Duncan Banner. He can be reached at 580-255-5354, Ext. 160, or via e-mail at derrick.miller@duncanbanner.com.
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