On behalf of the Arlington School District Board of Directors, I am writing this letter in support of EHJR 4204, a simple majority for our local schools.
This is a non-partisan issue it is about fairness to our schools. All six of Washingtons past Governors, from both parties, have endorsed 4204; so have 14 out of Washingtons 15 major newspapers. The Spokesman Review says, Its time to eliminate the supermajority requirement vote for school levies. When levies fail, its children who pay the price as teachers are laid off and school sports and music programs are disbanded. The Seattle Post Intelligencer states, As we have said before, education deserves fairness, no more or less.
Our own local Arlington Times says Having a requirement for a supermajority only ends up costing the districts money (to run a second ballot measure) in the long run. Having a simple majority requirement would save districts time, money and effort, and ensure that proper funding is in place to educate our children. In November, support the simple majority.
We agree with these editorial boards and our former Governors. We believe strong schools are good for the economy, good for the community and good for our country. Please join us in voting to approve EHJR 4204.
Kay Duskin, President
Arlington School District Board of Directors