I want to encourage voters in Pasco to vote yes for Pasco schools. This is not a new tax. It would renew the levy that was approved in 2010 and that expires in 2012. This is not an increase. The estimated rate is $4.51 per $1,000, a decrease of 4 cents per $1,000 from what voters approved in 2010.

Levy funds bridge the gap between state and federal funding, and what it actually costs to provide basic education programs for the day-to-day operation of schools including: substitute teachers, elementary counselors, art, music, drama programs, nurses, student transportation, school security, librarians and library books.

I urge you to support Pasco schools. Vote yes by Feb. 14.

Kathy Lepore, Pasco