We are writing to give our strong support for our region’s upcoming school levy elections, including Boistfort, Centralia, Chehalis, Morton, Oakville, Rainer, Rochester, Tenino and Toledo. As retired educators and parents, we know first-hand how important it is to support our students and ensure they have access to high-quality education.
Levies play a crucial role in providing programs and services that are not fully covered by state and federal funding. These can include vital areas such as reasonable class size, school safety, sports, arts, technology, school counselors and nurses, and even special education.
Furthermore, levies represent an investment in our local communities. By funding essential programs and maintaining high-quality educational opportunities, we ensure that our children receive an education that equips them with the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful contributing citizens in our communities.
Levy funds also play a pivotal role in helping school districts maintain and improve their facilities. This proactive approach upholds the value of our community assets and prevents our schools from falling into disrepair, which would not only be a disservice to our children but would also be unwise fiscally, leading to higher costs in the long run.
Having lived in Lewis County over 40 years, we have learned that each of our communities has immense local pride. At the heart of each community are our schools. We use school facilities year-round, using the playgrounds and fields, enjoy community events, attend music and athletic events, and as places of shelter in times of natural emergencies.
Our schools are not just educational institutions; they are an integral fabric of our communities where our students are educated and afforded an opportunity for a successful future. We strongly encourage you to demonstrate pride in your community by casting a “YES” vote on your school levy by Feb 13.
Don and Lynn Rash
Lewis County
