Letter: Vote yes on Jeffco school bond

I’m supporting Jeffco Schools’ 2016 mill/bond campaign – yes on 3A & 3B – because I believe in Jeffco Schools. We have strong traditions of excellence here, but we need to invest to ensure we remain one of the top districts in the state. Currently, Jeffco salaries are below the average of the five most comparable nearby districts – sometimes as much as 16 percent lower. In the past few years, Jeffco’s teacher turnover has risen steadily, and our current school board values Jeffco so much they want our district to be the first choice for the best teachers. We also need to invest in increased mental health support for schools, increased security, increased Student Based Budgeting funding for all schools, increased support services and equitable allocations to all charter schools. This ensures Jeffco students will receive the education necessary to prepare them for college and careers.

At the same time, the average school in Jeffco is 45 years old. Think of the maintenance you do on your home – even a new home. What happens if you put it off? We need to invest in much-needed improvements, technology updates, repairs and science lab upgrades. We need to invest in long-overdue renovations and additions, including new classroom space – something that has not been added since the 2004 bond passed 12 years ago. And, we need to build new schools where our district has outgrown the existing schools.

Join me in voting yes on 3A & 3B.

Kelly Johnson,

Golden

 

 

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