I am president of the Pasco School District Board of Directors, but I write this letter as a private citizen. Every member of our community has a personal stake in the financial health of our public school system whether or not they have children and whether or not their children attend these schools. An educated citizenry is crucial for maintaining the future prosperity of our community and our nation.

PSD educates nearly all of Pasco's school children, and it is in all of our interest that it does so successfully.

My fellow board members and I are extremely proud of PSD's progress in improving student achievement and of the external recognition our programs have received. Two examples: Pasco School District's high school graduation rates have improved by more than 50 percent over the past six years and are now among the best in the region. Also, PSD's districtwide music education program has been recognized as one of the best in the country. Achieving these successes requires a lot of hard work, and it requires community support. Continuing the current levy, which along with state matching funds accounds for 20 percent of PSD's operating budget, is essential for maintaining this progress. Please vote yes.

Sherry Lancom, Pasco