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When I was hired into the teaching profession in the year 2000, I heard my fair share of warnings about the direction of schools in our district. Since then, I have witnessed this district go from mediocrity to one of the best districts in the state. Looking back and identifying the reason comes down to one simple answer in my book, our community was done settling for second-rate schools.

The voters spoke loudly and clearly by electing strong board members who in turn hired visionary leaders throughout the district. Test scores and accountability increased, followed by A-plus financial audits and five-star school rankings. Success breeding success helped the district to be able to recruit and retain quality educators. The gracious public recognized the commitment for top schools and have supported all supplemental levies since 2000, including 69.89 percent of support in 2015. All of this while the district is responsive to the local property taxpayers by having a tax rate that is 48-percent less than the state average.

Now, in the middle of my professional career and my own kids in school, I greatly hope the voters will block out the noise coming from those who are into mediocrity and lower quality. This is not scare tactics or “deceitful propaganda,” the fact is if the levy does not pass we will take significant steps backward. I have faith this community wants the best and will be voting yes on the non-permanent, two-year supplemental levy on March 14.

DEREK DICKINSON

Sandpoint