Sheridan Youth Assistance Program encourages passage of referendum

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Dear Editor:

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Sheridan Youth Assistance Program, I am writing in support of the Sheridan Community Schools referendum and encourage our community to support this important effort to protect the quality of education our students receive.

It is important to understand that Sheridan Community Schools is not asking voters for more money – they are refinancing what voters already approved in 2023. Changes resulting from Senate Bill 1 and fluctuations in assessed property values have changed the school corporation’s tax base. Replacing the current referendum will allow the school to maintain approximately the same level of local operating revenue while providing the flexibility needed to respond to these changes.

The proposed $0.40 is a maximum tax rate, not a commitment to collect at that rate. In almost every case, property owners are expected to pay less in referendum taxes. The higher maximum rate simply gives the School Board the flexibility to maintain necessary revenue as the tax base changes – it is not an effort to collect more money than necessary. Without replacing the current referendum, Sheridan Community Schools anticipates losing more than $500,000 in property tax revenue over the next five years. For a smaller school corporation, operating with that reduction would have a significant impact.

Sheridan Community Schools has earned a reputation for excellence. Sheridan has been recognized among Indiana’s top high schools, including high rankings among traditional public schools with fewer than 500 students. The school has achieved a 100 percent graduation rate and a 94 percent IREAD passing rate, along with many other successes in academics, extracurricular activities, and athletics. Sheridan has also been recognized as a Best Place to Work. These accomplishments are the result of dedicated teachers and staff, supportive families, strong community involvement, and a school corporation committed to providing students with an excellent education.

I believe in our students, our teachers, our staff, and the future of our community. Maintaining the strength and excellence of Sheridan Community Schools is an investment in our children and in the future of Sheridan. I encourage you to support the referendum and help Sheridan Community Schools continue providing the excellence our students deserve.

Jeff Drayer
President, Sheridan Youth Assistance Program Board of Directors