RE: School bonds

“Extend and Pretend” or “Delay and Pray” bond financing techniques practiced by Hays Consolidated from 2001-2008 are finally over. During this time Hays administrators lied to the taxpayers about the ultimate cost to future generations by deferring bond repayments for up to 22 years.  

During this time superintendents duped us but helped themselves to lucrative contracts (including for their immediate family) heavily embellished with bravado that was pure window dressing. School board oversight was missing. Well intended school board members believed the bravado. I knew better. After years of training as an auditor, I know evidence matters over unsubstantiated claims. Real exit level scores on SAT and ACT exams and the percentage of students scoring above criterion dropped precipitously. Compared to peer campuses, we’re not doing so great. While suing the state for lack of support, the district put $48 million into savings.  

Now we have a school board election that promises change – finally. We have a new superintendent who does not prescribe to these short term practices that come home to roost after they are long gone. Unfortunately, because of tremendous waste in prior bond issues, including the most recent 2008 measure, the district is advancing yet anther bond issue. I can’t support it because they did not break out the various measures separately; I’m concerned about the amount of funds once again being placed into technology. I do not prescribe to the theory we need more technology in the form of tablets for every student using bond money for financing. To me, that diverts needed resources out of instruction to the bottomless technology bucket. The middle school and busses appear necessary.  

Whatever you do, please vote.  

Bryce Bales

Manchaca