This widow will vote for Roselle schools

This widow will vote for Roselle schools

I will vote yes for the Roselle District 12 Referendum. Here's why.

I'm a 77- year-old widow on a fixed income. Obviously. I do not currently have children in the public schools. I do, however, live in a world in which it is to everyone's advantage to have an educated, thinking, and informed public. For most of us, learning about life beyond home and church began in school.

Public education is the backbone of our democracy. It is available to all regardless of race, religion, economic status, gender or special needs. Education opens our minds and imaginations to wider horizons, new ideas and a love of learning. It provides a base on which a good life may be built a sound base which must remain available to the children of our community.

It costs money to run a school. The state of Illinois has dropped to 49th in the country in support of the educational system. Costs rise. Buildings age. Our needs are very real. District 12 has not increased its operating tax rate in more than 30 years.

District 12 has taken steps to cut expenses: reducing staff for next September, cutting back kindergarten to a half-day program, and a voluntary teacher salary freeze for 2016-17.

The time has come for you to support our children's future. I will vote yes on March 15. I can think of no better way to spend my tax dollars. Remember the quality of Roselle's schools has a significant impact of the value of your home.

Do the right thing. Be proud of your vote for our children and our community.

Donna Benson

Roselle