I’m a local business owner, taxpayer and strong supporter of good, local education. That’s why I’m supporting both measures for Renton Schools on the Feb. 9 ballot.

Measure 1 is a replacement levy which allows us all to show our local support for schools by providing more than 25 cents of every dollar spent in classrooms, on books and learning materials, school building maintenance, school bus fuel and everything else needed to run a quality local education system.

Measure 2 will fund the districtwide technology program helping create 21st Century classrooms and connecting our kids to the world and beyond. This measure also helps build an additional elementary school to help with the growing number of students we see in homes throughout all of our communities.

The district has structured both of these measures so that together they do not raise tax rates, which is important in our current economy.

Our school district is doing a great job getting students ready to be thoughtful, informed citizens while also being good stewards of taxpayer dollars. Our teachers are highly qualified and are working hard to prepare our children for a bright, productive future.

Let’s continue to do our part by providing local funding for our school system and vote yes for both measures on the Feb. 9 ballot. Mail your ballot as soon as you can to ensure your voice is heard. Thank you.

Jim Sullivan,
Renton