SCHOOLS: Show your support

As a mom of two girls attending schools in the Coeur d’Alene School District, I am so grateful for what the schools do everyday. As a teacher, I am proud to work alongside such dedicated educators.

Coeur d’Alene schools work tirelessly to educate, transport, and feed nearly 11,000 of our children each day. Every child who comes through the doors of our schools will find educators waiting to teach, inspire, and care for them. On March 14th, our school district needs the help of the community to maintain essential programs that help all of our kids thrive and become successful members of our community. The current Maintenance & Operations Levy makes up 22 percent of the district’s funding for programs and services. Passing this levy will ensure that critical programs such as advanced learning, remedial assistance, athletics, curriculum, and technology remain readily available to our students. This year, there is also a Construction Bond before voters to fund several projects, including the construction of a much-needed elementary school. This is critical to keep up with the increased enrollment we have experienced for the last ten years. The bond will also provide additional classrooms to our high schools, and improvements to several other schools.

The best part about the 2017 levy and bond is that for homeowners, like myself, the current tax rate would remain the same. What a remarkable opportunity to fund programs and buildings! Benjamin Franklin once stated, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest.” I wholeheartedly agree. Investing in our schools is investing in our own best interests. Well educated kids today lead to better jobs for Idaho and a well informed citizenry tomorrow. I hope you will join my family as we head to the voting booth to show our support for Coeur d’Alene schools. On March 14th, think ‘L’ (Levy) for learning and ‘B’ (Bond) for buildings. I hope you will vote yes, twice, and love both.

ERICA LINDHOLDT-DUNCAN

Coeur d’Alene