Something we SHOULD ALL agree on (I hope...)

Question: Why support a well-funded, well structured, accountable, effective school system in your local community?

Answer: Successful schools and well-prepared students for tomorrow’s world.

Student success and strong local schools: Not a single person I have ever met would disagree with the importance of these two things. A common denominator in any successful school is the support of the educators (teachers, principals, food service workers, custodians, librarians – anyone and everyone who works at schools), parents, and the community. All of these individuals have a hand in helping to educate our young people, and that support comes in many forms.

I would assert that one of the most important aspects of a highly effective school or district is the financial commitment to its various programs and resources. Without sufficient resources, it is hard to maintain valuable programs and attain success. Many, many Colorado educators recognize that the current state of school funding in Colorado is not adequate to meet the needs of our students and school programs today.

Several supporters in Colorado (education groups, business leaders, individuals, and community leaders) are attempting to gather signatures to place an initiative on the ballot this November. This is happening as the result of the passage of SB213 this spring. Our governor signed this legislation this May and is now out rallying support for its passage by voters. He believes in education.

If this proposal makes it on the November ballot, it would allow Colorado voters to approve more appropriate funding for our schools. This will mean more chances for programs to be funded, resources to be allocated (classroom support, resource and material support, chances for more professional development and training for our teachers, and support for special needs students, to name just a few) where they are desperately needed. More equitable funding could mean so many things for the students in our schools around the state. An investment in our schools means an investment in the success of our students.

If you are employed by or involved with your local school, please consider supporting this measure so that our students can have every opportunity available to them in order to achieve. All communities deserve to have local schools that strive for excellence. However, only with proper investments over time, and at the right times, are schools able to achieve this. Now is the right time to set our schools up for success. Now is the right time to say “yes” to students.

As an educator, parent, or community member, YOU ARE A LEADER, a strong school supporter, and a valued member of the movement that can help change Colorado education for the better. With your support, we can come help the schools of Colorado achieve greatness for their students.

I am encouraging you, your spouse, your friends and any member of your family that is interested to please consider signing the petition and to supporting the ballot measure this fall. There is about one week left before all the signatures must be gathered. Our students WILL benefit from this investment.

As a teacher, I am personally committed to my students and so are thousands of others across the state. I hope this measure makes it to the ballot and passes in November. Now is the right time.

At the heart of every great community is a great school, and behind great communities are supportive people like you.

Colorado commits to kids.  Won’t you please join us in helping Colorado schools to be the best they can be?