DRAFT LETTER
Date
Dear Monroe Elementary School parents/guardians,
On February 8, residents in the Everett School District have the opportunity to decide on two replacement levies for our schools. Both the replacement Educational Programs and Operations (EP&O) Levy and the replacement Capital Levy provide vital funding for our schools that are not covered by state and federal funding.
Having good schools and facilities has a positive effect on our neighborhoods. Better schools help build a stronger community, which will improve our quality of life, keep crime down and help increase the value of our homes.
Local EP&O levy funding covers basic operating expenses and includes:
· Special education services (state funds $35 million, actual costs are an additional $10 million)
· Nurses (state funds 3 nurses, district must pay for the additional 9 nurses we need)
· Counselors (state pays $4.3 million, actual costs are additional $3.6 million)
· Safety and security (state pays $400,000, actual costs are additional $4.4 million)
· Additional program offerings such as summer school, early learning, elementary dual language, choice programs, orchestra, family partnerships and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI)
· Costs over state funding for full time, part-time and substitute staff
· Extra-curricular clubs, sports, activities, and more
The $325.5 million capital levy provides funding to acquire, improve or maintain school facilities related to technology, increases safety and security, provides equal access to the same educational programs districtwide and pays for maintenance and mandatory upgrades.
After talking with many of you, I know you are interested in the facts about the upcoming levies so you can make an informed decision when you vote. You especially want to know how the levy will impact our programs here at Monroe. If this levy passes, we will have some nice improvements, including:
· Replace classroom locksets for improved safety
· Technology replacements/upgrades
If both levies pass, your new Everett Public Schools tax rate, starting in 2023, would be $4.08 per $1,000 of Assessed Value of your home. If you would like more information about the levies, please visit everettsd.org/2022Levies or email communications@everettsd.org .
Voting is one of the most important rights we have. It allows us to have a voice in government. Public education is critical to a free democratic society, and it is important for us to exercise our right to express our opinions. Please also encourage your friends and neighbors to vote by February 8.
Sincerely,
(Name of principal)