Dear Editor:
The Ohio School Boards Association strongly encourages voters to support Pioneer Career & Technology Center’s replacement levy on the Nov. 4 ballot. The 1.7-mill levy, which would replace two levies passed in the 1970s, would cost the owner of a home assessed at $100,000 just $2.51 a month.
A strong community partner, Pioneer supports the local economy and creates jobs by training students in the skills employers need. The operating costs levy will maintain the current high quality of education to make graduates more attractive to employers. It also will provide students continued access to the state-of-the art equipment and technology they need to succeed in a global economy. In addition, the levy will enable Pioneer to keep its buildings in good condition and preserve job training programs and vital teaching staff that would have to be eliminated if the issue fails.
The center has been a responsible steward of community tax dollars while facing the dual challenges of state budget cuts and a difficult economy. More than 20 staff members who retired were not replaced and others were replaced by less costly employees. In addition, teachers, in recognition of these tough economic times, have agreed to wage concessions in recent years.
OSBA strongly urges Pioneer residents to support their students and the local economy by voting FOR the replacement levy. Your children, your schools and your community are counting on you.
Jeff Chambers
Director of Communication Services
Ohio School Boards Association
8050 North High St, Suite 100
Columbus, OH 43235
jchambers@ohioschoolboards.org
(614) 540-4000