I am writing in support of Battle Ground Public Schools’ upcoming maintenance and operations levy.
It is awesome to see the dedication of our teachers, administrators, office staff and other employees; each plays a role in providing students with the best education possible. It would be great if our state would fully fund education and we didn’t have to depend on a local levy.
Our current levy is set to expire at the end of 2017. A “yes” vote would help to continue the funding we’ve had in place the past four years. Levies provide some of the basic expenses not funded by the state, including funding teachers, support staff and administrative staff. They also help to ensure small class sizes, maintenance of buildings, after-school activities, technology and textbooks.
I understand many taxpayers have a fixed income. Those 61 and older who make less than $40,000 a year can be exempt from local school bond and levy taxes. Contact the county assessor’s office at 360-397-2391 for an application. Investing in our children’s education is critical to the long-term impact of a community. Join me in supporting the upcoming levy. Ballots must be postmarked by Feb. 14. Additional levy information is at www.battlegroundps.org.