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We will be voting on March 14 enjoy the benefits of an education provided by those who funded it as we were growing up. School levies came around regularly in Seattle, and my parents always voted for them while wondering aloud why the state legislature couldn’t figure out how to adequately fund public education. They strongly believed that an educated electorate was essential to a democracy. It is a social contract which we all share.

And the children come this way but once. We must take responsibility for their turn at learning what they will need to know to function in society. As a volunteer in area schools (Southside, Washington) I have been very impressed with the quality of instruction. Of course there are subjects to be covered (reading, math, et al) but of equal importance is learning that each of us is part of a community. And there are people with different views, who deserve respect and a fair hearing. The teacher models behaviors and skills students absorb, such as unselfishness, and critical thinking.

And the cost is nominal. For instance, a primary residence with an assessed value of $250,000 will cost $6 per year more than the current rate. This is a replacement levy covering essential operating expenses such as funding one third of all district staff, all curriculum and instructional materials, all academic and athletic extracurricular activities, and more. Check out the facts at lposd.org, the school district website. Please vote yes for schools.

RAE CHARLTON

Sandpoint