From Charlie Baumann

Monroe

To the editor:

This November Monroe citizens will again face an important choice regarding the future of our schools. I will be voting YES on both questions, and would like to explain why.

I personally attended our schools decades ago and more recently watched my own children graduate from Monroe High School. I have a fundamental belief in the importance of a strong school system to provide opportunity for all kids to reach their full potential and to make our community a vibrant place where people want to live and work.  I also believe no school district should be given a blank check. That said, my evaluation is that the Monroe School District has earned and deserves our support. Consider:

Our staff and administration are providing a sound education, as recent state performance data ranks Monroe No. 2 out of 15 Badger Conference Schools.

The district has been a good steward of our tax dollars, with staffing levels 20 percent below the year 2000 and a property tax levy per student that is 12 percent below the state average.

Intended uses of requested funds are far from extravagant, with Question 1 authorizing current spending levels and Question 2 addressing necessary major maintenance and safety items. 

In sum, our schools are strong and well managed, and we should continue to provide the funding needed to keep them that way.

I encourage you do your homework prior to November 6. I’ll be voting YES.