Higher Education Supports TISD Bond Proposal

TYLER – Representatives from higher education in Tyler have come out in favor of the Tyler school bond issue. Tyler Proud held a news conference Thursday morning. Coming out in favor of the bond package were Dr. Mike Tidwell, President of the University of Texas at Tyler, Dr. Kirk Calhoun, President of UT Health Northeast, Tyler Junior College President, Dr. Mike Metke, and Dr. Dwight Fennell, the President of Texas College. The $198 million dollar goes toward the renovation of John Tyler and Robert E Lee High Schools.

Among the comments made at the news conference:
According to Dr. Mike Tidwell, “I am proud to support this bond effort for Tyler ISD because it will provide the students in our great city with the tools they need to become successful adults.”

Dr. Kirk Calhoun said, “The evidence is overwhelming and clear that this funding is needed in order to continue to renovate, repair, or replace aging or deteriorating facilities. Our children deserve classrooms that enhance their education, not impede it.”

According to Dr. Mike Metke, he and his wife “believe a ‘yes’ vote for TISD’s bond election is needed and that a ‘yes’ vote helps affirm a bright future not only for the students in our high schools, but for all of us.”

And Dr. Dwight Fennell told the news conference, “It’s one we should all support and applaud. It’s one that brings us all together in spite of public or private, in spite of denominational type of experiences related to our school system. It makes us a family of one and it brings East Texas together. We are excited about it and without any hesitation, Texas College stands in support of this initiative.”