Watching the Funding Our Future/Vote Yes lawn signs pop up around Cook County makes me proud to be a resident here! Having been in education for over 40 years now, I have seen the many benefits that occur in communities where operating levies have been passed.
Although we vote “yes” for our young people and their future, I have seen other positive results in communities that supported similar levies.
One such result was that the schools attracted new families, in addition to improving the educational opportunities for students. In ISD 166, where part of the financial issue is declining enrollment, this would be very positive, indeed.
At the end of 2015, our current levy (which the voters authorized five years ago) will sunset. Our school board is asking voters here in Cook County to support another five-year levy. Having served on the ISD 166 school board in the past, I know from personal experience how closely the budget is watched.
The school board has kept the promises made to voters five years ago, and they will once again! This group of elected officials cares deeply about preparing students for the future. The school board cares about being fiscally responsible to taxpayers, as well.
Many individuals and businesses have already contributed to the levy steering committee, so brochures and newspaper ads can inform voters about what will be provided for our students. Please examine the website at www.fundingourfuture.org and click on the link to the Facebook page to get more information about the levy.
Please attend an informational meeting during September and October—offered in several locations throughout the county— so you can hear a presentation about the levy and have any of your questions answered. Look for the dates and times of those meetings in ads in future editions of this newspaper.
Thanks to all the businesses, alumni, parents, staff and other community members who have demonstrated their commitment to the future of our students and our community!
Ann Sullivan
Educator and Levy Steering
Committee Member
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