For a $400,000 home in our community, the answer is about $10 a month an investment in our children, our schools, and the future of our community. That is less than the cost of one family dinner out. Less than many of us spend on coffee in a week. And it is an investment that goes far beyond our own homes.
District 206 serves approximately 4,000 students in nine schools. These are our children, our grandchildren, our neighbors and, ultimately, the future of our community.
But the cost of everything from staffing and technology to transportation, utilities and student services continues to rise. At the same time, Minnesota schools are being asked to meet new requirements and mandates, some of which do not come with enough additional funding to cover their costs.
That is why voters are being asked to approve an operating levy. Ten dollars a month is a relatively small contribution when compared with what we ask our schools to provide: safe and welcoming classrooms, qualified teachers, meaningful opportunities for students, technology, activities, support services and an education that prepares young people for whatever comes next.
This is not simply about balancing a school district budget. It is about deciding what we value.
Strong schools benefit students, families, employers and the entire community. They help attract families who want to live here. They help prepare young people to become productive citizens and workers. And they help maintain the vitality of the community we all share.
Nobody wants to pay higher property taxes. But we need to look honestly at what $10 a month can accomplish.
District 206 voters, learn the facts about the proposal, consider what it means for our schools, and vote YES for the operating levy.
Ruthie Schultz
Alexandria, Minn.