Don't let minority make schools decisions

There have been so many campaigns to encourage voting, but why is it necessary? Why aren't more people voting in local elections, deciding things like who sets the direction for our schools? Time, lack of awareness, apathy?

Looking at some of the statistics from recent elections will show you that a minority of our community votes for the people making very important local decisions:

• In 2017, the District 41 referendum was passed by 10 votes.

• In 2017, there was a 50 vote spread between three of the candidates for District 41 school board.

• In 2015, 3,752 ballots were filed, leaving 1,100 votes uncast for District 41 school board candidates.

In fact, our current local officials were decided by under 20 percent of the electorate. This low voter turnout should not continue. We need to hear from all members of our District 41 community in this very important local election, especially with respect to the District 41 school board.

Do you want our District 41 students to continue their 21st century learning through programs like Problem Based Learning and Foreign Language in the Elementary Schools? Do you want to see the school board plan for increasing enrollment, early education and full-day kindergarten? Do you want a school board who listens to the educational experts and supports teachers and administration? If so, vote Buttimer, Hill and Estes.

You can either vote by voting or not voting. If you don't vote, we live under a minority rule. Local elections impact us profoundly, so make your voice heard on Tuesday, April 2. Vote the Bottom 3 for District 41 School Board - Buttimer, Hill and Estes

Jami Dougherty

Glen Ellyn