Rio Band Families,
A huge thank you to all the students, parents and community members who came out last night in support of our effort to build a theater on the Rio Americano campus. The library was packed, and we had a wall of kids in their green “Build It!” shirts standing in the back. It was a clear visual image of the unity behind our cause. By nearly all measures and accounts, it was a successful and positive gathering. Although we were disappointed that Superintendent Kern was not present, SJUSD was well represented by Board Members Greg Paulo and Saul Hernandez, Director of Communication Trent Allen, Facilities Director Frank Camarda and Rio Principal Brian Ginter. We began with impassioned and informative speeches from band parents Joanne Swedlow and Sonya Winchell, followed by a brief overview of Measure N from the board members, which led to a spirited but cordial question and answer session. I feel that we learned about the process, and (for the most part) had our questions answered as well as they can be at this stage. Education funding is very complicated, and the process will not be quick. However, we now feel that this is a realistic goal, and we have a path forward.
Here are the NEXT steps:
- There will be a community forum regarding how to spend Rio’s Measure N funds on Thursday, October 2nd, at 6:30pm. Location on Rio’s campus TBD. Our presence, in even greater numbers than last night, will be vital. This may be the final opportunity to have our say in how the funds are allocated, and we need to continue to show that we are a unified, large group with the best interests of students in mind.
- SJUSD Board Meetings are held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of every month, at the district office on Walnut Ave. There is time for public comment at each meeting, and it would be wise to have members of our community at each board meeting for the near future. Please consider attending one or more and letting your voice be heard.