No doubt, schools are critical to securing the future of our community.

Right now, we can help secure the future of Renton’s schools.

Approval of a $97 million bond measure in February’s special election came tantalizingly close to the required 60 percent yes vote. Recognizing strong support for the measure, the Renton School Board decided to place the bond on the next election, April 17.

Now April 17 ballots are in the hands of voters in the Renton School District. The Renton Reporter strongly encourages everyone to vote – yes, of course – to meet the double requirements of a 60 percent approval and of a minimum turnout.

Much is at stake.

The Renton School District really does need another middle school. The three it has now – McKnight, Dimmitt and Nelsen – are among the largest in the state. Learning and just the entire school experience suffer in crowded conditions.

There are other benefits, too, that will add to the life and usefulness of many district schools.

The popular Lindbergh Pool gets a much-needed upgrade. Swimming is a recreation that everyone in the community can enjoy; swimming classes are busy at the Lindbergh Pool, a sure sign of its value to the community.

There are all sorts of ways to explain just how minimal the cost of the bonds is to a property owner with a $257,000 home, the average assessed value in the district. In the straight-forward way, the bond would cost $3.85 a month, figured at 18 cents per $1,000 of assessed valuation.

Whatever you learned in the weeks leading up to the February election is still relevant today. The need hasn’t changed, but the urgency has. It’s expensive to run an election and time is of the essence to begin construction.

Certainly our schools are worth a latte.