A simple analysis of the proposed Mercer Island school bond shows its excessive cost. $196,275,000 for 4,178 students is $46,978 per student. Average cost per square foot to build schools in Seattle is $160 per square foot, which would give us 293 square feet per student, or over 2.45 times as much as the median square foot per student in U.S. school construction.

Even if we use New York City’s inflated $202 per square foot, we are at almost twice the cost per square footage recommended!

Although a strong supporter of education, with almost a decade working in higher education, I cannot support reckless spending, particularly in this incredibly severe recession.

The School Board should be told to produce a plan that provides the great education our children need within a reasonable budget.

Brian Milnes