Try to imagine schools without librarians, nurses, substitute teachers, art, music and drama classes, security, custodial services, buses, dropout prevention programs, clubs and athletic programs.

Can't do it? Neither can the schools. Levy dollars are crucial for helping schools cover day-to-day expenses such as these. As a teacher in the Pasco School District, I see the difference that these services and programs make. They are vital. Approving the Pasco levy is vital.

Although the State Supreme Court recently ruled that the Legislature has failed in its constitutionally required obligation to support schools financially, it will most likely be a long time before a solution to this problem is attained.

However, our schools, our children, have needs now. Levy funds help to cover this monetary shortfall.

Abigail Adams, wife to one American president, mother to another, once said, "Learning is not attained by chance; it must be sought for with ardor and diligence." That necessity for ardor and diligence falls on our shoulders as well as the students'. Please do not leave it to chance that the money our schools need to help children learn will magically appear. We are the magic! We make things happen. Please vote to approve this tremendously important levy.

Deborah Thompson, Pasco