As a local primary care physician, I am acutely aware of the challenge many in our community face in obtaining timely, quality health care due to the shortage of primary care doctors.
When young physicians visit to interview, they always ask, “How are the schools?”
After living here for 15 years, and parenting two children who are now in eighth and sixth grade I can honestly say that amazing things happen in our schools and classrooms thanks to the dedication and efforts of teachers and administrators alike.
However, I would also have to disclose that the last two levies for the Port Angeles School District failed.
Our school buildings are out of date, underfunded and crumbling.
Technology available is not adequate to prepare students for a modern work force.
In the event of an earthquake, school buildings will not keep our children safe.
In the past few years, three of my physician colleagues have moved away from Port Angeles because they felt the school district here did not meet the needs of their children.
Please recognize that passing the capital levy is vital to sustaining and enriching our community.
While residents without small children may question their need to contribute to funding for the public schools, please consider this: physician recruitment and retention will become even more difficult if our schools are poorly funded and the facilities are allowed to further decay.
Please vote yes Feb. 11 for the Port Angeles School District capital levy.
Invest in the future and health of our community.
Dr. Laura Bullen
Pediatrician, Peninsula Children’s Clinic
Port Angeles