I would like to thank all of the district residents who ventured out on a rain swept Tuesday to cast their ballot for the 2006/07 School Budget, Bus Proposition, and elected three Board of Education members. Our right to vote continues to be one of our most important fundamental freedoms. At a time when we sometimes think we have no choice in many of the things that impact our lives, we still have the ability to be heard when we exercise our right to vote. More than a week has passed since the residents of our community approved “The Budget.” While this “public thank you” may appear a little late, my column deadline was nine hours before the final vote was tallied, consequently this is my first opportunity to express my gratitude.

Another thank you is extended to our Board of Education and to all of our administrators and directors who worked so very hard with the Central Office in developing the final budget. A special thank you must also go to our Citizens’ Budget Advisory Committee. This group of unselfish volunteers worked tirelessly every Thursday evening going through multiple aspects of the budget formulation, asking questions and making excellent suggestions. Our appreciation also is offered to all of the organizations that invited us to attend their meetings to make a budget presentation. Our “2006 Budget Tour” increased significantly, which we view as a positive for it provided us an opportunity to share accurate information regarding the school budget with a greater number of people. With a promise kept (keeping the tax levy increase for 2006/07 under 5%) and with the much appreciated support and endorsement from the community, we can continue to move forward with the work of improving our schools.

A good school district is one of the most important resources of a community. Good schools have a profound impact upon every resident, but they do not just happen. They are the result of a positive and productive effort by the community and the school district working together to provide the best educational experience for all students.

Again, THANK YOU for your confidence and your support.

With the upcoming Memorial Day Weekend, my next column will not appear until June 7th. I hope you enjoy the “official start” of our summer season with a relaxing weekend. Please take a moment to reflect on the true meaning of Memorial Day and the reasons we have the freedoms we enjoy today.


Roy Reese
Superintendent of Schools