Education is Worth the Levy

In the question of the levy on the ballot this November I can see only one logical answer; vote yes. The levy will only do positive things for the district with revenue brought in by a very reasonable method. If the levy passes, the district projects that there will be no budget shortfall in the next fiscal year, which means less worry and uncertainness for everyone in the district, especially those who felt the negative effects of the budget shortfall last year. With the increased revenue, the district can spend more money on each student, which means anything from new books to keeping a coveted teacher. Any parent who wishes their child to be successful would agree that paying a reasonable tax based on the value of your home is a small price to pay for better learning opportunities. The levy even benefits taxpayers who don't have children in the district. With a better school in the neighborhood, property values will rise and we'll have a better educated work force. Better education accounts for lots of things from a lower crime rate to a more cohesive community; it's just a win-win for everybody. If the levy is not passed, it means only bad things for the district. There will be a 3.2 million dollar budget shortfall for the 2012-2013 fiscal year, and a 4.5 million dollar shortfall for the 2013-2014 fiscal year. If the levy does not pass we will all face some very tough decisions, Sibley could be changed to a six-hour day, fees for parking and sports would be increased and we could lose anywhere from 12 to 15 teachers or counselors. The levy provides what the state cannot, money. We cannot just keep cutting and cutting our budget. This levy must pass for us to remain operating normally and productively. I can think of no better way to spend money than ensuring quality of education, and when it all comes down to it, we are a worthy investment.