On Nov. 6, Lake Orion residents will vote on a bond proposal that will have significant impact on the future of our community.

As a parent who has two children attending Lake Orion schools, I recognize that now more than ever our community finds itself facing one of the most important decisions that our school system has encountered over the past two decades.

There are countless areas in which Lake Orion sets itself above other districts in the county and state, however, the root of what has made our school district so successful can be found in our name – Lake Orion Community Schools.

The community is a vital part of our school system, just as our schools, students, staff and families are a vital part of the Lake Orion community.

Our community will be asked to vote on a bond that will directly impact the education of nearly 8,000 students for the next 20 years. We have the incredible opportunity to help shape the future of countless students as they prepare and embark upon their own life’s journey. This opportunity has not come without great effort and action.

Over the past few years we have seen and experienced firsthand the tough decisions that Lake Orion schools has made in an effort to maintain a balanced budget, competitive schools and programming that is one of the most unique, rigorous, and vibrant in the county and state.

As a parent of students at Pine Tree Elementary, I experienced the impact of these tough decisions firsthand, including the emotional impact of these decisions.

What I have also witnessed is the thoroughness, thoughtfulness and purposeful approach the district and community has taken in ensuring the long-term health of our district and its students. The decisions made over the past five years have not been easy, but our school system continues to provide our students with an exemplary education as a community that is committed to serving students first and foremost.

We find ourselves at a critical impasse. As one of only two districts of 28 in Oakland County that has not passed a bond since 2002, we are faced with aging infrastructure and a need to invest in our school and community for the current and future generation of learners.

I encourage you to reach out to neighbors and friends to discuss the upcoming bond. I invite you to contact any of the schools in our district to ask questions and learn about the impact this bond vote will have on our community, regardless of whether or not you currently have a child in the school system.

Most importantly, I encourage you to vote on Nov. 6.

Together, we can continue the rich tradition that Lake Orion schools has developed and ensure that future generations of learners have the same exemplary educational experience as so many others who have come before.

Jennifer Modzelewski

Lake Orion