Levy would be good investment for everyone

For many reasons the Sandpoint area is a wonderful place in which to live.

One of those reasons, and a very important one, is that we have very good schools. There is always room for improvement, and I believe we are moving in that direction. The residents of the school district have been very supportive of education as indicated by passing supplemental levies for the past 17 years.

Because of the way public education is funded in Idaho, local property owners do not directly contribute to local schools except by levies or bonds which are approved by the voters. In other words, school districts, unlike cities and counties, do not have taxing authority. Hence, the need for levies which have become essential rather than supplemental to make up the shortfall in state funding.

Even though most people support education and want good schools, I realize that there are those who oppose the current levy. I have heard complaints that the salaries of the superintendent and the CFO are too high, and that the levy increase is too much. First of all, the salaries for our superintendent and CFO are under separate contracts and will be paid regardless of whether the levy is passed or not. Secondly, the majority of the increase goes for wage increases for our teachers in order to attract and keep the very best qualified people The key to an excellent education is that teacher in the classroom, and this levy would make their salaries competitive in northern Idaho (although not Washington). Should the proposed levy pass, we would still be only 45 percent of the statewide school district average levy rate.

Of course, along with spending taxpayers’ money comes accountability. One of the responsibilities of the school board is to ensure that your tax dollars going into public education is a good investment. Being on the board the last couple of years has given me the opportunity to meet principals, teachers, staff and students and observe some of their activities. The students have achieved outstanding results in so many areas that I would not be able to list them all. Also, the dedication, innovation and caring of our teachers and staff are most impressive.

More detailed information on the levy can be found on our website: lposd.org

Lastly, I would encourage you to vote yes for the levy on March 12, 2019!

Cary Kelly is president of the Board of Trustees, Lake Pend Oreille School District.