To the editor:

We are writing this letter to inform the community about the early childhood needs addressed in the upcoming Marshall Public Schools referendum.

Education is a vital part of a great community and we want the best possible opportunities for our children. As we work with our youngest learners and their families, we feel a solid foundation is necessary. The upcoming referendum would move the early childhood classrooms from the Marshall Middle School to Park Side Elementary. All Early Childhood programming would be under one roof. Currently, Early Childhood programs are in two buildings, which makes collaboration challenging.

Some of our current classroom spaces are very small. Our middle school/ECFE playground is lacking enough equipment for the number of students utilizing the equipment. Staff are unable to collaborate weekly, due to not being in the same building. For the earliest learners in our community to have a great start in their education, it would be beneficial to add classrooms and remodel space at Park Side to better meet their needs.

The referendum will open more space for early childhood, decrease the number of students that are on waiting lists for preschool programming, and open more classes for Early Childhood Family Education.

Early Childhood Education is shown to be an important factor in a child’s success. In the published paper: Early Childhood Development with a High Public Return, by Art Rolnick and Rob Grunewald for the Minneapolis Federal Reserve Bank, the article concluded that early education investments give a return that far exceeds the return on most public projects that are considered economic development. The study found a 16% return on investment and 80% of the benefits going to the general public. High quality programming for 3 and 4-year-olds can yield more than $8 for every $1 invested.

It is imperative to get out and vote! Early voting is currently open every weekday between 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Marshall District Office, 401 S. Saratoga St. Every vote counts and is important.

Thank you for considering voting on May 14.

Tiffany Teske, Jodi Frazee,

Emily Hoffmann, Amanda Hansen,

Lori Radke, Jesmine Rattler, Lindsey Brace Jessica Deschneau and Jennifer Hansen