As a former and retired teacher of Margaretta Schools, I want to share some thoughts about the levy request on August 3. During my 30 years at MHS, I witnessed tremendous growth and advancement in academics. Margaretta was a leader in educational reform and never took a backseat to any of the neighboring schools. As graduates, students were able to compete successfully for jobs or admissions to colleges. I am proud to say that I taught at Margaretta.
The district is now facing a tremendous challenge. As voters, do you give your school the funding it needs to continue providing a quality education, or do you deny it the necessary funds and watch the continued deterioration of a once very good educational program? What can your students look forward to in this new, competitive world?
In the last 39 years, voters have given the school board additional funding on only 3 or 4 occasions. That is an average of 10 years between rate increases! Cuts can only go so far. Your school board has been a good steward of your public funds. The average need for new taxes for Ohio schools is 5 years. Margaretta’s 10-12 year average between tax increases is commendable, if not unbelievable.
Education is the great equalizer. Without it, an individual can easily be controlled or manipulated by others or forced to live a life without much opportunity. A free society has the responsibility and obligation to fund their public schools.
I ask that you give serious consideration to support your public school by voting for the levy. If you have any questions, contact the appropriate people to get accurate information. There can be no room for distortions when your student’s education and future is at stake. You can’t afford to say no. Instead, vote YES!
James A. Edwards
No comments:
Post a Comment