Support levy and keep magic of learning alive

I am a teacher employed by Lake Pend Oreille School District. Every day I am witness to the magic of learning that touches our school children's lives. The American family structure has changed over the years and with that change, so have our schools. School life provides stability and offers wonderful opportunities for many of our students. Having said that, please consider the following:

The state of Idaho is drastically reducing the amount of dollars they are willing to use to fund education. Our elected LPOSD School Board officials have invested hours of creative thought into the structuring of a two-year supplemental instructional levy which totals $10,950,000. The dollar amount in this levy will be paid over a two-year period.

During the first year, the school based taxes will remain flat. In 2010 when the plant facility levy is paid off, we will only pay on the second year of the supplemental levy. During this second year it is important for us to understand that our tax bill will actually drop by about 45 percent.

It does tend to be confusing. We have two levies at the same time. Both are drastically different. The plant facility levy is being used for Kootenai and Sagle remodels, building repair and maintenance. The supplemental instructional levy will fund books, curriculum, staff for manageable class size, sports programs, math competitions, drama, music, etc. You get the picture.

I value our school system with all the diverse programs from which our children have to choose. I wish to continue promoting education and wellness. It does take a community with a big heart to raise a child. Please keep the magic of learning alive and join me by voting "yes" on Feb. 24.

PAM LIPPI

Sandpoint