In support of the NB school referendum

Posted 4/18/01

In support of the NB school referendum

To the editor:

The citizens of North Branch will be asked to support the students of North Branch Schools on a Mail In Ballot to be returned by May 8th, 2001. The two questions are:İa) should we build a new elementary school and update our current primary school and b) should we support a supplement to the operating levy that would update technology and enhance classroom learning. Both of these questions reflect a true need of our schools. The first question will provide a new elementary school and if approved, would tap into state funds to pay for 26 percent of the cost. The second issue would provide operating income for our schools that would be supported at a 70 percent level by the state of Minnesota. This is a good deal for North Branch and our kids need these resources.İThe supplement to the operating levy would be used primarily to update technology and facilitate student learning and efficiency of instruction. When students return to class next fall, 84 percent of the classroom and office technology resources will be five or more years old. If our students are to succeed in the real world they need to be exposed to the tools of the real world. The current supplement to the operating levy would be terminated and the new levy would provide $500,000.00 per year to support the day to day learning need of our children. The good news is that the state will pay for 70 percent of the price tag if our community is willing to support the other 30 percent.İ

The tax impact of the combined bond and levy issues is proposed to be $17.92 a month for a home with a market value of $125,00.00. The 70 percent state share of this issue would be lost by our community if we chose not to support the levy proposed.İApproximately 80 percent of the schools in Minnesota have an operational levy in place. Can our community afford not to invest in this proposal?İCommunities around North Branch are facing devastating cuts in operational budgets that promise to reduce staff and increase student-teacher ratios.İThe passage of the supplement to the operating levy will help safeguard our schools from a similar fate.İPlease vote yes for both issues on the May ballot.İYour vote will have a positive influence on the future of North Branch.İIf you need more
information or details please visit our website at WORDWELL.COM/YESİVOTE YES FOR KIDS

Pam Hughes
Stacy