Levy needed to offer more than minimums

We have the opportunity to renew our levy and support student learning by maintaining current programming and staffing. As a teacher and parent, I am extremely appreciative of our community’s support of our schools and the opportunities provided to my students and my children that are essential to their success. Moses Lake has long provided enrichments above the minimums paid for by the state: from full-time counselors at the elementary level to electives, clubs, and athletics at the secondary level.

Here are some questions that I have heard numerous times recently about the levy:

“The state has now fully funded education, why do we still need a levy?” The short answer to this question is that the state funds their formulas that make up their program of basic education. Moses Lake has always provided programs and staffing beyond what the state considers “basic.” Our levy gives us opportunity and flexibility to provide enrichments to the state’s program of basic education. A yes vote on the levy ensures that my two children, along with the thousands of other students in our district, will continue to have essential supports like health services, music, and security as well as athletics and extra-curricular programs.

“What’s the difference between a bond and a levy?” The simplest explanation is that bonds build buildings and levies are for learning. The levy funds a variety of staffing needs across our school district from security and additional teachers for smaller class sizes to more education support professionals who assist our certificated staff in providing services to our students. Our athletic programs, clubs, and extra-curricular activities are entirely locally funded with the levy.

The levy provides critical staffing and services for our students and I hope you’ll join me in voting yes.

Jeremy Pitts

President, Moses Lake Education Association