On Jan. 5, I had the pleasure of attending the third annual Richland School District Music Teachers Concert.

In a climate where school arts programs are continually threatened by state shortcomings on funding education, the music teachers of RSD chose to respond in the way they know best -- by putting on a show.

I was barely able to get a seat in the packed auditorium and was overwhelmed by the sizeable audience. That night, the RSD music faculty demonstrated through a wide variety of musical acts that they are more than just great teachers: They are passionate artists. I couldn't ask for a better quality in our teachers.

Special thanks to Lewis & Clark Elementary School music teacher Carri Rose for her leadership in organizing this event, in addition to her superb performance that included multiple percussion instruments in complex combinations. Bravo!

On Valentine's Day, as we spend time with our loved ones, we as a community have a wonderful opportunity to show our love for our students, our schools and the quality instructional programs they receive funded by local levy dollars. Please join me in voting "Yes" to all of our school maintenance and replacement levy elections across the region.

JUSTIN RAFFA, Richland