I grew up in the Richland School District and have a degree and license to teach first- through eighth-grade. have participated in my children's classrooms weekly since preschool. I've been "in school" most of my life.

Am I then an expert on school funding? No.

But when I opened my pink levy pamphlet, I was interested. After reading it, I'm invested. This is about my children -- our children.

Materials, technology and workshops, are essential to better education.

Many schools don't offer "specials" like art, music, computers, physical education and library because they can't fund them. These are the opportunities that give our kids the chance to be special.

Buses deliver students with disabilities, transport children on adventures called field-trips, haul teenagers to uplifting concerts, sporting events and intellectual competitions.

I love and want my children to be safe when they're away. We need funding for security personnel and maintaining buildings.

I don't own a large house, so my contribution to the levy is minimal. My home's value is not huge. The value of the future living inside is enormous.

It's interesting that levy voting happens on Feb. 14, a day we celebrate love. Show our kids we love them; pass the levy.

Jessica Merkley, Richland