I am writing this letter urging our community to support the upcoming Battle Ground School District levy on April 22.
I have been a student, teacher and administrator in this district over the last 45 years. I have appreciated fantastic teachers and support personnel that have given it their all to support me and other students in every step of the way. I also have had nine of my own children attend the Battle Ground Public Schools. Some of them have graduated and others are currently attending. I am thankful that each of them have had teachers and guidance personnel that believed in them and gave them the support and confidence to succeed.
I can understand that citizens do not want to pay additional taxes as budgets are getting tighter and tighter. However, I want to emphasize that this is a replacement levy. It is not a new tax but rather a replacement of the expiring levy that will sunset at the end of 2025.
Supporting our local levy will ensure that safety never takes a holiday. We need security for our schools. We need to make sure that our schools have counselors so they can support some of our most fragile students.
Mental health struggles are at an all time high and each and every student deserves a caring adult that will make sure they are successful in school and that they have support in their educational journey.
Thank you Battle Ground Public School citizens for all of your support over the years. I know that passing levies is never easy in Battle Ground, but I can tell you when there is funding the students get what they need and it is a win for our community.
Please remember to vote by April 22. Every vote counts. Here is our opportunity to give support for our students and let them know we care.
For additional information about the current Battle Ground School District levy, visit https://www.battlegroundps.org/page/educational-levy. Thank you.
Ryan Cowl
Battle Ground
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