Arlington needs to replace Post Middle School.

That aging structure just can’t handle the growth in that area and its layout is not safe for the types of problems that can develop in this day and age.

Houses are springing up everywhere. And just think, those folks moving in will help to pay for the new school, so the burden just won’t be on the people already living here.

We urge Arlington voters to approve the bonds to not only replace Post, but also to add eight classrooms and a Technology and Arts workshop at Arlington High School. AHS is expecting more than 350 new students in the next four years, so we need to make room for them.

The bond also pays for safety measures throughout the district. Each school building will have a secured entry, improved classroom door locks, and interior and exterior security cameras. The bond also funds a fire sprinkler system for Eagle Creek Elementary.

Best thing for taxpayers is that passage would not cause local school property tax rates to increase beyond what the community is paying now.

Hard to believe?

Well, the district says the combined taxes for schools locally and statewide are now $7.48 per $1,000 valuation. That would drop in 2019 to $6.59 per $1,000. Why? Because new state law limits what can be charged locally in the future. The state will collect more taxes for schools then distribute it back to districts to try to level the playing field for education.

There is no better investment for society to make than in our schools. Please support the Arlington school bonds Feb. 13.