Vote yes for the Everett School District levy and bond. Did you know that nearly 25 cents of every dollar spent in our classrooms is possible because of the Educational Program and Operations Levy? That means the levy pays for textbooks, paper, light and heating, transportation for school buses to and from school, competitive salaries for professional staff, and much more.
All of these costs should be paid for by the state, but they are not. The often mentioned McCleary decision is a court order and that is it; just a court order for the state to fully fund schools by 2018. So far, the state has not followed the court order. In fact, earlier this month, the State Supreme Court reprimanded our legislators for not making good progress toward that funding.
It will be at least four years before all of the McCleary decision funding might be available in classrooms. The levy on the ballot now is for four years. Perhaps by 2018, when this levy expires, the state will have met its Constitutional obligation. Until then, our students and the stability of our community depend upon strong, consistent local funding.
We are a growing community and we need more classroom space. We also must maintain and repair the school buildings we have. The bond is just as necessary as the levy if we are to attract good businesses and their families to keep our economy healthy.
Vote yes on the bond and yes on the levy.
Michelle Nims
Parent of two Everett Public Schools students
Everett
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