Editor,
I ask all readers to vote yes on the upcoming Battle Ground Public Schools levy. This levy is solely to continue to support the students of Battle Ground.
Currently, as in the past, the state of Washington only provides a portion of the necessary funding for public schools. By design, local schools are supported with local dollars. The state provides a portion of school funding, and local taxes provide the rest. Without local money, schools would not be able to maintain the services that are currently provided. School counselors who manage student scheduling and help students navigate all manner of school problems, psychologists who test and identify student learning needs and differences, assistant principals who manage school safety, supervision, discipline and teacher evaluation, and classified support staff who work face to face with students are funded either partially or totally by levy dollars. Our alternative schools, which serve students who need a different learning environment, are also supported through levy money. Without levy funding, these services would be cut or eliminated.
Battle Ground Public Schools is not asking for more. Battle Ground Public Schools is asking to simply maintain what it is currently able to do. This levy simply replaces the one that is expiring this year. A yes vote keeps counselors, psychologists and assistant principals working with students.
It is not asking for more. It is asking us to maintain what our students currently have. Your ballot will arrive in the mail soon. Join me in voting yes for our students and yes for the future of Battle Ground.
Kevin Palena
Battle Ground
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