Not a new tax increase

I support the “Yes for Kids” maintenance and operations levy. With every election, there are many initiatives worth consideration. However, when it comes to providing the children of our community a continued opportunity for personal growth, achievement and success, support of this initiative is critical!

With families feeling the pinch of the economic downturn, it is important to note that this levy is not a proposed tax increase. It is a replacement levy, which means it replaces the expiring 2009 levy which is already funding basic education and learning. Funded services included in this budget are reasonable class sizes, counseling, nursing, library, gifted programs, electives, Advanced Placement, elementary band and strings, art, online learning, dropout prevention, special education, student transportation, sports, clubs, intramural programs, security and support staff.

This is a very long list of essential needs that the children in our community benefit from every day!

For voters who do not have children in public schools or do not have children at all, I ask that you consider this levy to be more than just designated public school dollars. This levy is our tax dollars being spent to foster educated, well-rounded, confident and successful leaders of tomorrow.

Callie Bendickson

Spokane