[Lafayette, LA] – The League of Women Voters of Lafayette today announced its support for the October 22 proposition dedicated to school facilities. The organization based its position on the findings of their four-year study and on-going research documenting the school facility issue in Lafayette Parish public schools.

 The League recognizes that there has been a long-standing need for a consistent source of funding for capital improvement and maintenance for local schools.

 “In a community of Lafayette’s wealth, we should not have to wait until school performance scores improve before we provide safe and healthy schools for all of our students, said Sally O. Donlon, president of the local League.  According to the League’s 79-page research report, quality school facilities and proper maintenance help maintain a positive learning environment; help protect the health of students and teachers; eliminate or reduce the number of fires, accidents, and other safety-related hazards in or on the properties; provide buildings that function efficiently; enable the continuous use of school buildings without disruption to educational programs and services; conserve energy; and stabilize home property values.

The local organization researched and compared maintenance and capital improvement budgets with other districts, examined other state and national requirements, toured and photographed the local schools, conducted widespread interviews, attended School Board meetings, workshops, and budget hearings, and participated in community dialogues outlining the facilities master plan.

The complete report, as well as the accompanying 10-minute video entitled “Everybody’s Schools,” can be accessed at the League of Women Voters of Lafayette website.

The League of Women Voters is a non-partisan, non-profit organization that encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues and influences public policy through education and advocacy. Men are full members. The League further supports meeting families' needs, building safe, harmonious communities, and strengthening voter impact.

 For further information on the League of Women Voters of Lafayette, visit the local organization's website at <www.lwv-lafayette.org.>