Image courtesy Gulf Coast Community Foundation

Sarasota County voters have an opportunity to continue to show our support for the incredible role our teachers, schools, and administrative staff play in our children’s future. The $1 million school district millage referendum is up for renewal on March 8 and I believe voting in favor of this is a win-win for Sarasota County schools, staff, students, and our region. We can be proud that Sarasota County is a top five school district and people move here because of it. Sarasota County Schools has earned an “A” rating from the Florida Department of Education every year since grading began in 2004. Funding from the referendum helps support this and strong school communities.

In spite of today’s volatility, our teachers and administrators are doing a tremendous job. We should do everything in our power to support them – now and especially when post-COVID arrives. Our school district has proven they have done a good job taking these tax dollars and making the most of it. Supporting this referendum is a good investment in our children’s future, and also shows important support of Sarasota County Schools.

Renewing the referendum is not a new tax for Sarasota County residents, as the 1 mill has been in place since 2002. The referendum pays for Summer Learning Programs and some Reading Recovery teachers, allowing students to avoid the summer slide in learning. It also gives funding for Technology Supports Professionals in each school. Renewing the referendum will allow the school district to pay for teacher salaries, guidance counselors, athletic trainers, and valuable music, dance, and arts programs. It will support Pre-K and Early Learning Opportunities, while keeping the added 30 minutes of instruction per school day. The referendum will also continue to enhance safety and security at schools. 

Supporting our students, teachers, schools, and administrative staff is critical to the future of our region. Education develops critical thinking and self-dependency, teaches logic, builds confidence, and provides stability, among other things. Given the right educational opportunities, people can live longer lives and build stronger futures. Education is important for us all.

Early voting for the countywide March 8 election will be held Saturday, February 26 through Sunday, March 6 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. daily at these four locations. The deadline to request a vote-by-mail ballot be mailed to you for this election is Saturday, February 26 at 5 p.m. On election day, March 8, polls are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. More information can be found at SarasotaVotes.com. 

Whether you vote by mail, vote early, or cast your ballot on election day, I hope you will join me in voting yes for continuation in the Sarasota County School District Ad Valorem Millage Election.

Mark Pritchett is president and CEO of Gulf Coast Community Foundation.

Image courtesy Gulf Coast Community Foundation