Years ago I learned a valuable lesson on Mount Constance.
I was one of several parents that helped youth from our church experience the mountains.
We had begun climbing Constance at first light, following a father and his two adolescent children who had started even earlier.
Later we watched that group approach the “Terrible Traverse,” an intimidating steep snow slope.
They had stopped, not sure if the children’s light footwear was adequate for the route.
As I impatiently muttered to myself about the father’s poor preparation, a wiser adult stepped forward and asked me to take our rope and kick solid steps across the snow.
The younger children then tied into the rope and safely advanced.
Our whole group followed and soon we all stood together on the summit.
In that action I learned that as soon as I stepped back from my own self interest, I was able to help young people reach their goal.
I hope our community will do the same and support the upcoming school levy.
The school district has already done its part, listening to citizens after the last two funding efforts failed, and making changes that appear in the current funding proposal.
Educators and staff are doing their part, stretching limited resources and patching time worn facilities.
Now it’s time for us to do our part.
When we vote yes, we help equip students to overcome challenges and reach their own educational summits.
Let’s get this done.
Let’s vote yes on the levy.
David Christian
Port Angeles