September 11, 2003

Mr. Joe Meyer, Editor

Westerville News and Public Opinion

P.O. Box 29912

Columbus, Ohio   43229

Dear Mr. Meyer:

It is always unfortunate when misinformation appears as fact in any section of the news.  Lisa Hamilton's letter to the editor that appeared in the September 10 edition is an example of misinformation as she stated "hearing" that plasma televisions are installed at Westerville Central High School.  There are none.

In fact, recent WCS Board of Education meetings included exhaustive discussion about if and where any TV/VCR/DVD technology would be available for instructional use in the school.  Measures and guidelines were established to maintain equitable access to resources among the three high schools.  Again, there are no plasma televisions at Central or any of our high schools.

The reference Ms. Hamilton made to Michael J. Kelley's statement that "Westerville City Schools run a very effective and financially lean educational system" cannot be over emphasized.  The Westerville community's educational tax dollars are stretched to assure that every financial expenditure gives us the maximum return.  The quality of results in our students achievement and experience in Westerville Schools is outstanding, especially when given our average spending per student has fallen $377.00 below the state average.

Certainly the taxpayers should expect their school district to be financially responsible.  Unsubstantiated "hear say" should NOT mislead our community into believing their additional support is NOT needed by the levy issue in November.  Instead, taxpayers must read and listen to the facts.  We invite you to review all financial information regarding the operations of the Westerville City Schools.  It is a matter of public record, presented to our community at regularly scheduled School Board meetings.  Additional district financial information is also available on the district website at www.westerville.k12.oh.us. 

Westerville Central High School will be hosting a Dedication and Open House for the community on September 21^st at 2pm.  We welcome our community to attend this event and tour our facility. 

Sincerely,

Todd Meyer

Principal