Schools in the north county are touting the fact their enrollment is up when compared to the previous year. Within the last month, Fredonia, Westfield and Ripley have noted the increase in students.

That is a refreshing change, but it does not fix years of overinvestment in buildings and complexes that have occurred during a decade of downsizing when it comes to the numbers. Fredonia, for instance, will likely be moving forward with a $51 million capital plan that includes repairs, additions to the music department and a new facility for athletics.

Voters will have to make the ultimate decision, which will likely happen in December. It will raise taxes for those in the district if the three plans are approved.

Additionally, if these upgrades do take place, it fortifies a shrinking district that could be partnering with another neighboring school that could provide more educational opportunities — and athletes.

Currently, the district’s swim team consists of members from Dunkirk, Forestville, Pine Valley and Cassadaga Valley. If schools are having trouble with members for swim teams, why must we keep building — and remaining separated.

Capital building projects normally get voter approval without any pushback. A majority of those funds for the improvements come from Albany — up to 90%. That’s another troublesome waste of money for taxpayers across New York state.

Education needs public dollars. They just need to be spent smarter.