The Jordan School District is currently deciding where it will build a new high school east of 1-15 in the south end of Salt Lake Valley. The top two sites are approximately 9800 S. State St. and 2000 E. 9400 South.
The 2000 East site is more economical because it would use residential property as opposed to the commercial property on State Street. The 2000 East site would also require much less site work. In fact, a district official has said that enough money could be saved to build one and maybe two additional elementary schools.It is imperative that Jordan School District maximize the number of schools that it can build with available funds when facilities are so greatly needed. Unfortunately, district officials face some opposition to the 2000 East site for various political reasons, but how can they pass up an opportunity to provide one or two more elementary schools when the need is so great? The education needs of the district's children should outweigh the various political concerns.
In addition to the $3 million to $6 million savings realized at the 2000 East site, the school and community will also benefit through cooperative agreements with the Alta Canyon Recreation District. Their existing facilities could be used to reduce expenses while providing a higher level of physical education programs. The decision should be made in the best interest of our children, not the city's interests.
Kent C. Jaffa
Sandy