Learn the facts on LPOSD's replacement levy

This is an open letter to Sandpoint High School students:

We want to inform you of the upcoming school levy vote on Feb. 24. This is a two-year replacement levy that will have a huge effect on students and staff of LPOSD schools, yet the price tag to taxpayers is actually less then the school portion on our current tax bills. Why this supplemental levy is different from ones in the past is because it is in conjunction with the state of Idaho proposing a cut of $2.4 million in our education funds. More then ever before, it is up to our community to keep our schools healthy.

We want to encourage students to talk to their families and friends and get the word out to vote on Feb 24, or absentee at the LPOSD district office before that time. For the price of going out to dinner once a month, this is what you stand to lose if the levy does not pass:

• All athletic teams could be eliminated

• 100 staff/teachers may be laid off

• No more band or drama

• The end of clubs like Acadeca, Math Club, and tech clubs

• Drastic reduction in elective classes so mostly the basic core classes would fill you schedules

• The year book and Cedar Post would be in jeopardy of being cut

• No more new textbooks, computers or lab equipment

• Larger classes, higher student/teacher ratio

• Less honors and AP classes

And all this is just on the high school level; there would be as many drastic changes in the middle and elementary schools.

While many people are feeling the crunch of the current economy, it is important for us to come together as a community and chip in. For a relatively small monthly contribution ($25 per month the first year, and $14 per month the second year based on a property value assessed at $250,000), we can help maintain the health of our community by preserving jobs, and allowing options for students and their futures.

So please start talking to adults in your life and let them know why it is important to you, your friends, your school and your town that this levy passes. It really is not that much to ask.

GALEN MacDONALD,

SHS student

AMY HANSON and

GLEN MacDONALD

Sandpoint