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Dear Editor:
As a self-funded non-profit, Sheridan Elementary Schools PTO has the privilege of working alongside our teachers and staff at the Sheridan Community School District, and understands juggling rising costs and budget limitations.
SES PTO writes to express our enthusiastic support for the November operating referendum vote. This referendum is vital for the continued success of Sheridan Elementary School and future prospects of our entire community.
The referendum aims to maintain the current tax rate of 25 cents per $100 of assessed value, and accounts for 12 percent of the school’s annual budget. It is important to note that this is not a new tax increase, but a crucial continuation of the support that has propelled Sheridan Schools’ growth and achievements. The operating referendum directly impacts crucial aspects of our educational system, including teacher salaries, classroom sizes, and the quality of education provided to our children. The significance of sustaining this level of funding cannot be overstated, especially in the face of the nationwide teacher shortage, where our ability to recruit and retain the best educators is paramount.
We acknowledge the complexity of the ballot question, which might mislead some to believe that the tax rate has increased or is a new imposition. This is not the case. This misconception poses challenges to the referendum that we must collectively overcome. Every vote matters, and unified support is crucial in ensuring the continued success of our educational system. As such, we would like to extend an invitation for all Sheridan Elementary Parents to attend the referendum open house at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 1 in the Elementary Cafeteria.
The impact of the referendum on Sheridan Elementary School cannot be understated. A failure to pass the referendum would jeopardize the exceptional standards of education we have worked tirelessly to uphold. Our schools serve as the bedrock of our community, contributing not only to the educational well-being of our children but also to the overall desirability and property value of our town.
Under the stewardship of Superintendent Dr. Mundy and our dedicated school board, every penny has been maximized to its fullest potential, making this vote an easy YES to continue the exceptional value of a Sheridan education.
On behalf of the Sheridan Elementary PTO, I urge you to cast your vote in favor of this crucial referendum, enabling our schools to continue their invaluable contribution to our community.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Lauren Lewis
SES PTO President