Debbie Smith was a state senator who sponsored legislation to make WC1, a measure to raise funding for school construction through sales tax, possible.
So it's fitting that the 10th anniversary celebration for WC1 took place at the school named in her honor - Debbie Smith Career & Technical Education Academy.
"What we've accomplished in terms of the impact on human lives really can't be measured and will be solved for generations of this community," said Adam Searcy, Chief Operating Officer for Washoe County School District.
WC1 has raised $1.5 billion for Washoe County schools since it was passed in 2016.
Brandi Anderson is on the City Council representing Ward 6, encompassing South Reno.
She said her kids at Brown Elementary School greatly benefited from WC1 funds.
"Their computer lab was part of their cafeteria, separated by a tarp so that they could have that learning space," Anderson said. "There was no way for young fourth and fifth-grade kids to be able to focus and study on learning technology in that type of an arena. So being able to invest in those facilities ... it's what they're worth and what they deserve," she said.
Students at Debbie Smith prepared snacks and drinks for everyone at the celebration and got a standing ovation for their work.
Shortly after, the campaign that helped WC1 pass gave a presentation on how the measure has benefited Washoe County schools.
School Board President Adam Mayberry said the funding over the past 10 years has allowed them to serve their entire community.
"We're looking at schools, particularly in some of the areas where, lower socio-economic ladder," Mayberry said. "Families that are in poverty, for families that haven't had the luxury of attending new schools with new facilities, with better technology. and so that really allows us to provide a greater level of equity across our spectrum."
Thanks to WC1, students across Washoe County have received improved learning experiences over the past 10 years.
