Moving forward in Oak Park

In November 2006, the Oak Park School Bond Measure H-6 was defeated. It received 55 percent voter approval but required two-thirds for passage.

During the H-6 campaign, many community members found it difficult to tell which side was providing truly accurate and reliable data. There seemed to be a high level of mistrust as evidenced by the harshness and level of rhetoric contained in letters and blogs written by community members.

There were questions regarding why a two-thirds bond measure was selected rather than the 55 percent bond measure used by neighboring school districts.

In light of these issues, some community members helped organize a meeting to bring "yes" and "no" folks together to discuss their concerns and see if we could work together.

On Jan. 11, over 60 Oak Park community members met at Mae Boyar Park At least 30 attendees introduced themselves and made short statements on issues concerning the future of Oak Park Schools. Speakers included parents, nonparents, students, Yes H-6 and No H-6 voters.

Some of the issues presented included the H-6 bond measure, interdistrict transfers, the need for more trust and accuracy from all parties in the future and how to get more community involvement especially from non-parents.

Future meetings will be more focused. We plan to break into smaller groups to discuss, fact-find and present possible action items to the school board and district. A website and online discussion board are available.

The next meeting is 7:30 p.m. Feb. 8 in the Mae Boyar Park After School Room. Oak Park community members are encouraged to join us for this important activity. Future meetings will be held the second Thursday of each month.

For more information, e-mail Jay Kapitz at j_kapitz@ yahoo.com, call him at (818) 889-1039 or visit www.oakparkschoolscommunity group.com on the Internet.
Jay Kapitz, Oak Park Municipal Advisory Council