Locals share opinions ahead of election results
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- Proposition 2, which would construct a new public high school in the city, drew polarizing opinions among locals on election day.
St. Joseph native and southside resident Gary Guyer was not in favor of Prop 2.
"We got three good high schools in St. Joseph, why do we need a brand new one?" Guyer said. "Just update the old ones we got, that's the way I see it."
Another voter and retired teacher of 33 years, Carol Pittman, said she hopes to see a new school.
"I think our students, our children deserve the best schools we can give them," Pittman said. "My mother went to Central High School, which lets you know it's been there a long time. Times change and we have to change with them."
She believes it will be easier for students to study a variety of subjects with two high schools.
Las Vegas native Evan Banks had a similar opinion.
"I think it's important that all students have access to the same opportunities," Banks said. "Oftentimes, certain geographical realities prohibit students from having the same opportunities as others."
Banks moved to St. Joseph in 2016, and coming from an area that was constantly building new schools, pride for an alma mater was viewed differently compared to locally.
"There isn't a whole lot of attachment to mascots or school pride based on geography. (It) always seemed silly to me," Banks said. "All that's important to me is that kids are learning and learning in a safe environment."
Torri Spencer doesn't think a new school is necessary.
"They need to take care of the schools they've got," she said.
"It's not going to pass the first time, it's probably not going to pass the second time, but they'll just keep sticking it on the ballot until the people who don't want it get tired of coming out and vote no," Spencer said.
Each voter said he or she would find peace no matter the outcome of the election.
"Am I going to be at peace? I'll probably be frustrated and irritated and a little disappointed," Banks said. "But will I be spurred to do damage or harm another? No, that is definitely not the way."
