The public is invited to a Citizens For Kent Schools-backed rally on Jan. 11 to learn about the school district’s maintenance and operations levy and the technology levy placed on the Feb. 11 ballot.
The rally runs from 10 a.m. to noon at the Kent-Meridian High School cafeteria, 10020 SE 256th St.
According to the group, a successful M&O levy would allow the district to restore high priority programs lost to past budget cuts, such as fifth grade band and orchestra and earlier reduced staff positions like counselors and librarians and building maintenance and middle school athletic programs.
If it doesn’t pass, 20 percent of the operational budget will be lost, or one in five staff jobs could disappear, the group said.
The four-year replacement levy provides up to 24 percent of the district’s annual operational revenue. It bridges the gap between state funding and community expectations and continues paying for supplies, services, and approximately one in five of all employees. Levy funds also would allow a gradual restoration of programs lost over the past four-years due to state and federal cuts.
The 2010 technology levy expires in 2014. The four-year replacement levy continues support for classroom technology in KSD over the next four years. The replacement technology levy allows the district to continue paying the cost of maintaining technology tools, and increases safety and technology platforms across the District, especially in elementary schools. The levy replaces existing student and teacher computers as they become outdated and support technology used by students and teachers on a daily basis.
To learn more, visit www.citizensforkentschools.org.
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