Clarifying the Playground Equipment Funding for Cedar Key School

Clarifying the Playground Equipment Funding for Cedar Key School

Recent accusations have suggested that Chris Cowart, candidate for Levy County Superintendent of Schools, excluded Cedar Key School from the initiative to secure state funding for playground equipment. It’s essential to address these claims with the facts to ensure clarity and fairness.

The Truth Behind the Advocacy:

In the summer of 2022, the Levy County School Board, under the leadership of Chris Cowart, identified playground equipment as the top legislative priority for state funding. This decision was:

• Communicated to all relevant parties, including the District 4 Board member, the Cedar Key School Principal, and a local city leader.
• Unanimously approved by the School Board, indicating a collective decision to pursue this funding.

Community Involvement and Miscommunication:

• Fundraisers and community donations were held at Cedar Key School, with the understanding that these funds would be used for other campus projects, as state funding was expected for the playground equipment.
• Despite this communication, Cedar Key School chose to use these funds for purchasing playground equipment from a non-district approved vendor, which led to safety issues.

Safety and Financial Implications:

• The equipment purchased was later deemed unsafe by an inspector, requiring the District to intervene and correct the safety violations at the District’s expense, using District personnel.

Evidence Supporting Chris Cowart’s Position:

• Historical Context: Traditionally, each community in Levy County has raised its own funds for playground equipment.
• State Funding: Thanks to advocacy by Chris Cowart, Levy County received $300,000 in state appropriations for playground equipment, demonstrating his commitment to all schools in the district.

Conclusion:

The claim that Chris Cowart neglected Cedar Key School in the playground equipment funding initiative is unfounded. The truth reveals a scenario where local decisions led to unintended consequences, despite clear communication and planning from the District. Chris Cowart’s efforts to secure state funding for playground equipment were inclusive and aimed at benefiting all schools in Levy County, including Cedar Key.