KPLU Local News
(2010-01-08)
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Schools First President Betty Hoagland, Seattle School Board member Peter Maier and Liz Tennant (center) prepare yard signs at the campaign headquarters for the Seattle Levy Propositions 1&2, Jan. 8, 2009.
Gary Davis photo.
The campaign for two Seattle School District levies kicks off Saturday (January 9th). Supporters only have a month to rally voters behind measures for both day-to-day operations and building improvements.
Asking voters for money is tough under the best of circumstances. But asking for two yes votes in this economy?
"We recognize times are hard, but this is absolutely critical for our 45,000 and growing Seattle Public School students."
Sharon Rodgers is spokeswoman for Schools First, the group running the "yes" campaigns for propositions 1 and 2. Prop One is the capital levy. It would raise nearly 300 million dollars for building and technology improvements and fund hundreds of renovation and maintenance projects.
"They are not the big remodels of the schools, but they are things that absolutely critical for the health and safety of the kids in our schools."
Part of Prop One would also provide the money to reopen five closed buildings. The district says they're needed again because of a surge in enrollment, a trend partly fueled by parents unable to afford private schools or home-schooling.
Prop Two is for the day to day. It asks for almost 450 million dollars, and accounts for a quarter of the district's operating budget. It pays for programs such as all-day Kindergarten, a full six period day at high schools, as well as some teachers and classroom assistants.
Both levies would replace measures that are expiring. Opponents and supporters are still finalizing statements for the voters guide. The February 9th election will be the first all-mail-in vote for Seattle schools. You should receive your ballot in two weeks. Gary Davis, KPLU News, Seattle.
For More Information:
Seattle Public Schools Levies Fact Sheet
Schools First website with info about their campaign kick-off on Saturday, Jan. 9th.
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