Photo: Sarasota High School.

Most of us know Sarasota County Schools is an A-rated school district, and high-quality schools beget stronger high school graduation rates. High-quality schools also equate to higher property values, and it’s no secret that many homeowners scout out highly rated schools when making their home buying decisions.

In short, high-quality education and thriving communities are inextricably linked, and for 22 years Sarasota County residents have overwhelmingly voted in favor of the Ad Valorem Millage Referendum that directly supports our public schools, students and teachers.  That is why I am advocating for you to VOTE YES to continue the referendum for the Sarasota County Schools.

By voting YES, Sarasota County Schools will be enabled to invest approximately $114 million each year by providing 30 minutes of additional daily instructional time, exposing students to arts, music and STEM education, expanding access for career and technical education, implementing safety measures and enhancing campus safety, and attracting and retaining high-quality educators. The 30 minutes of additional daily instructional time alone equals 18 extra school days per year, and over the course of a child’s education from kindergarten through graduation, the child gains a full year of additional classroom learning.

Everyone should vote yes and continue to support public education in Sarasota County. Past elections have shown the majority of voters who support continuing the referendum are not necessarily native to Sarasota and they are over 69, yet they care about young people and upcoming generations here in Sarasota County. This cohort understands not only the value but the necessity of high-quality education and its connection to student success that is imperative to ensure that our community continues to thrive.

Superintendent Terry Connor and his team have built a strong, long-term strategic plan (sarasotacountyschools.net) that demonstrates a solid commitment and implementation process to keep our schools positioned among the best in the State. Sarasota County has always invested in education and in the future of our youth. It is a growing cornerstone of our community, and I hope we can all make the promise to keep our commitment to education intact by going through the entire ballot, find the referendum on page four and vote yes. 

Join the strong coalition of supporters to continue this referendum. At the Education Foundation, we believe an investment in a child’s education is the best investment anyone can make. This referendum has been community-led for decades, and we can make sure it keeps on going and keeps on giving. Spread the word, canvas neighborhoods, talk to friends and family, and most importantly, go to the last page on the ballot and vote yes for the continuation of the ad valorem millage referendum, like your future depends on it. Because it really does.  

Jennifer Vigne is president and CEO of the Education Foundation of Sarasota County. Contact her at jvigne@edfoundationsrq.org to get involved.  

Photo: Sarasota High School.