Faith Leaders Support TISD Bond Issue

TYLER — A group of faith-based leaders Friday announced their support and endorsement of the TISD Bond Proposal slated for vote in the November 2 election. Included in this group are: Dr. David O. Dykes, Green Acres Baptist Church; Rabbi Neal Katz, Congregation Beth El; Rev. Ralph E. Caraway, Sr; Charles Dodson, Breckenridge Village of Tyler; President Rev. Charles Faulks; The Rev. Canon Dr. Robert DeWolfe, St. Francis Episcopal Church; Anwar Khalifa, Islamic Society; Rev Dr. Archie Hicks; Rev Darryl B. Bowdre; Dr. Stuart Baskin, First Presbyterian Church; Rev. Rob Fisher, Pollard United Methodist Church; Bishop David Houston; Rev. Valita F. Waits; Rev. Charles Burns; Rev. John R. Hinton; Bishop C.F. Porter; Rev Robert L. Davis; Dr. John Robbins, Marvin United Methodist Church; Superintendent Rev Melton R. Timmons; and Chris Pulliam, First Christian Church.

Dr. Dykes said, “Cindy and I are both supporting the TISD Bond election. We believe that Tyler should have the very best facilities for our children. An investment in the lives of children is a wise investment in the future of our nation.” Reverend Caraway said, “This is a bond proposal that must pass for the future of education in TISD and to make sure we finish the job we started. We have completed 14 of the 16 elementary building projects…only two are left. Join me in voting YES to keep building schools that are being built on time and under budget. Remember, this proposal does not raise our tax rate.”

Rabbi Katz added, “The TISD School Bond is yet another way to show our students how much we care about them and their places of learning. With this election, the community has an opportunity to finish a major overhaul of our school facilities that began some five years ago. We are all proud of Tyler ISD, so let us vote YES with pride to fund our next generation of schools.”

“The most important commodity we have in life is our future in the form of our children. They are the legacy that needs to be nurtured, formed, and prepared for carrying on a fruitful society that will continue the improvement of quality of life for all of our people. And, we need adequate facilities to prepare our children for this future role of enhancing our society. I heartily support the passage of the bond issue that will make this possible.” said The Rev Canon Dr. Robert Wolfe.

Dr. Robbins continued, “Schools are a reflection of the community as a whole. That’s why it is critical that we have the best and most technologically advanced schools. Quality schools mean a quality community.” Anwar Khalifa said, “New schools give Tyler a great image for those looking at Tyler to live. They will help our economy as a whole.”

And Dr. Baskin concluded, “As a pastor, I know a thing or two about good stewardship. I know that aging buildings eat up a lot of money in high utility costs and maintenance that could otherwise go to instruction. The TISD bond proposal is simply good stewardship. It will help us devote a higher percentage of our tax dollars to teaching our children rather than repairing old buildings. And that is good for Tyler.” The TISD Bond Proposal includes the replacement of the final two elementary schools and the construction of a new middle school relief campus for overcrowding and growth.