During a recent government meeting, significant discussions highlighted the remarkable contributions of Arrowhead students and staff to their community, alongside pressing concerns regarding school safety and infrastructure.
The meeting began with an emphasis on the dedication of Arrowhead students and staff, showcasing their involvement in various community service initiatives. Notably, the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) and the Student Senate organized multiple blood drives, resulting in over 300 pints of blood collected, which translates to approximately 900 lives saved. Additionally, the Student Senate's Giving Tree program provided holiday gifts to three families and ten children, raising $1,500 in gift cards for families in need.
The Warhawk Interact Book Fair was another highlight, where thousands of books were donated, allowing 300 participants to select free books. The recent Feeding America Football food drive yielded an impressive 9,162 meals, surpassing the 8,930 meals raised by Oconomowoc, marking the third consecutive year of success in this initiative. The girls' swim team also made headlines, collecting over 85,100 items for the Heartland Food Pantry and raising $10,000 for Make-A-Wish.
In total, Arrowhead students participated in over 130 projects, contributing more than 10,000 volunteer hours in just one year. This included hosting events for veterans and raising $114,000 through a golf tournament for the MAC Fund, bringing their total contributions to over $1 million.
Transitioning to the topic of school infrastructure, the meeting addressed the need for a referendum to improve safety and facilities. Concerns were raised about the current layout of the school, which includes two large buildings separated by a significant distance, posing safety risks for students and staff. The outdated design, with numerous entry points, increases vulnerability compared to modern school designs that allow for better security measures.
The aging facilities, some over 50 years old, were also a focal point of discussion. The buildings are heavily utilized, leading to significant wear and tear, and do not meet contemporary educational needs. The funding system for schools necessitates community involvement through referendums for capital projects, underscoring the importance of community decisions regarding school infrastructure.
Overall, the meeting underscored the dual focus on celebrating student achievements while addressing critical infrastructure needs to ensure a safe and conducive learning environment.