Question: Why is it important that we approve this project now?

Answer: There are four compelling reasons:

1. Our schools have served Lebanon well for many years, unfortunately they no longer meet the State Board of Education standards.

2. Interest rates are lower than they have been in decades. Acting now could save the District hundreds of thousands of dollars in interest.

3. The state will pay 30 to 40% for this project if we act now. The State is not promising  building aid to any project after June 2010.

4. Historically construction costs have risen as much as 8% per year, adding  significantly to our costs for each year we delay this project.

Question: Why do we need a school this big?

Answer:   

1. The core areas of the school are designed to the minimum state standards.

2. The student counts provide a reserve of 50 students (~12 per grade) from current enrollment.  This is within an accepted and recognized planning margin.

Question: Why do we need to worry about State Aid?

Answer: State Aid will be provided between 30 and 40 % of the cost of the entire project. This money will save Lebanon taxpayers between 7.5 and 10 million dollars.. The State is placing a moratorium on building aid after June 2010 and it is not expected to reinstitute aid for  at least three years.

Question: Why not renovate an existing school?

Answer: Over the summer months 4 different options were explored and scrutinized. This evaluation process resulted with the plan you see today, build a new school on a site that could accommodate the school and all of the playing fields. This option was found to be the most cost effective while also addressing  the future needs of the school district.

Question: How does a new school affect my property values?

Answer: Realtors nationwide, claim that great schools make for great neighborhoods and increased community property values. Employers often can attract and keep good employees if up-to-date schools are available.