Excellent public schools drive business development and job creation.

The bond referendum that Iredell County voters will consider on November 4th isn’t just about new buildings and more classrooms, it is about ensuring the continued economic growth and success of our county for decades to come.

Area Development Magazine, the leading executive magazine covering corporate site selection and relocation, recently posted a survey in which it asked leading corporations what was most important in determining sites for relocation or expansion.  Number one on the list was the availability of a skilled workforce. It is certain that without quality education it’s impossible for a company to find a skilled workforce.  Number four on the survey was the quality of the public education system in a given area. Their concern for the corporate tax rate ranked number seven.

Numerous studies show that people who receive a quality education and graduate high school are far less likely to commit crimes. A recent study done by a nonprofit group made up of over 5,000 police chiefs, sheriffs and prosecutors found that dropouts are 3.5 times more likely to be arrested and 8 times more likely to be incarcerated.  It also found that across the country approximately 68% of state prison inmates don’t have a high school diploma.  Clearly corporations recognize how critical a quality education is to their success.

These facts aren’t just confined to a surveys.  In our area alone companies such as Lowes, BestCo, Carolina Beverage, Niagra Bottling, Cardinal Glass, NGK Ceramics and others have signaled their full support for this bond referendum.  They understand what quality education and educational facilities mean to them and their businesses. They also represent some of the largest employers and property tax payers in this county.

A yes vote on this bond referendum isn’t just a vote for our kids.  It’s a vote for jobs, private investment and high quality of life in Iredell County.  All of which are critical to maintaining the high standard of living we have enjoyed, and will continue to enjoy, in our community.

Sincerely,

David Coble

 

The above letter appeared as an editorial this week in Iredell County newspapers.