Letter to | the Editor

To the Editor:

As a resident of Montgomery County who lives in the Red Oak School District, I understand the importance and need in funding our local schools to allow our young people opportunities and the ability to succeed. But when we talk about schools and our education system, where do the funds to support them come from?

Property taxes are probably number one. We also have a state foundation aid, which is so many dollars per student times enrollment. This formula also works to equalize the disparity between the property rich districts and property poor districts by making up for a property tax deficit.

Schools can also use an income surtax in their budget, taxing up to 10 percent of a person’s tax liability when they feel the need. Other funding comes from fundraisers, endowments and donations.

It takes a lot to keep schools going, with day-to-day expenses being challenging enough. Sometimes it seems we have steak tastes on a hamburger budget. I get that – we all want the best programs for our kids. However those also have to be funded. But how? Property taxes are already high, and may not be the best answer.

We are all passionate about our children’s education and their future, as well as the future of our community! That’s a good thing, and we need to do our youth a service by taking a deep breath and working together for the common good to find a solution that benefits all.

 David Gohlinghorst, member

Montgomery County

Farm Bureau board