As state funding for schools shrinks, the University Place School District replacement levy becomes even more critical to protect our current educational program. Voters must continue to support our schools. This levy is not a new tax as its passage will just continue to take out what voters have previously supported.
As evidenced by newly built University Place Primary and Curtis Junior High schools, and the current major renovations for our gymnasium, pool, theater and athletics fields, our school leaders are smart and frugal in the use of taxpayers’ funding and support.
I urge voters to not let apathy, complacency or political dissatisfaction stop us from passing this levy. University Place schools currently provide a very high-quality education; the failure of this levy will cause major staff and program cuts of an estimated $7 million that would be devastating to the education of our students and the development our community.
Passage of the levy will not increase school spending and is not to fund extra programs that we do not currently have. It will allow for our district to remain a leader in quality education and superior extracurricular programs that reflect our community’s commitment to a balanced education.
My family has been greatly enriched by the excellence in all areas of education from teachers, coaches to facilities in University Place. You and I can make a difference in our community, to stay strong and provide quality education for our children by voting yes on Feb. 9.
