LEVIES: Investing in community

I am writing today to show my unwavering support of the Lakeland School District levy.

Research has shown the benefits of supporting public education extends far beyond each individual’s academic gains.

A population that is better educated has less unemployment, reduced dependence on public assistance programs and ultimately provides greater tax revenue.

Education plays a key role in the reduction of crime, improved public health and greater political and civic engagement.

Investment in public education results in billions of dollars of social and economic benefits for society at large.

Recently, there has been so many studies on the adverse effects on the mental health of students from being able to attend in person school and whether you agreed or not Lakeland was the only district that kept the students in school, learning, five days a week.

Lastly, the rapid explosion of growth in our community is currently outpacing our schools’ ability to keep up. As quoted in the Spokesman-Review on Feb. 21, referring to the demand on the housing market in Kootenai County, Hayden and Rathdrum, because of the Lakeland School District — one of the highest rated in Idaho — are also popular areas.

In order to maintain high quality neighborhood schools, a yes vote on this levy will ensure the existing programs continue for two more years.

JULIE and BRAD MURRAY

Rathdrum