Be informed on school needs

by J. Patrick Reilly

Have you already voted in the early voting or have you returned your absentee ballot?  If so, you have already made your choices for those running for office.

But what about the school districts in the area who are requesting help?

For me it is troubling to learn we have a very healthy state budget overage that could be used to help the public school system but it does not appear that is in the works.  Schools are already behind as the state did not fund them when federal funds were available during the pandemic.  That means districts are at least two years behind.

The question is not is the money needed because it is if programs are to be maintained or in some cases necessary repairs completed.  

Can schools survive without successfully passing a referendum?   They can, but look out for cuts that will affect student learning and take away programs.

If you have questions about the “why” of the referendum, talk to someone at your school who can answer your questions.  There is much information about the “why” available.

Now the rest is up to you as you vote your feelings.