SRQ DAILY Aug 3, 2024
Saturday Perspectives Edition
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Living in this community is often described as paradise. With some of the most famous beaches in the world, a vibrant arts scene, top-level healthcare, and five-star restaurants and resorts, Sarasota and its neighboring counties provide a backdrop for a fine life. But living in a tropical wonderland has its price and can come at a high cost in unexpected ways.
For years, there have been discussions about the lack of attainable housing—not just in Sarasota but in Florida and nationally. As many people already know, attainable housing is critical to a healthy economy and a community’s success. The Education Foundation has been closely watching the negative impact this has on one specific sector, public school teachers and we believe there are opportunities where we can collectively begin to offer creative solutions for our valued teachers because they guide future leaders: our students.
The Florida Department of Education lists the current average Sarasota County teacher salary at $68,428. The minimum starting salary is $55,000, and this was an increase approved by the school board on June 18. While attempts are being made to improve this, many teachers still fall under the category of cost burdened, meaning they spend more than 30% of their income on housing. Cost-burdened households have little left over each month to spend on other necessities such as food, clothing, childcare, utilities and health care.
It's a fact that post-COVID Florida experienced a major growth spurt, as people came to Florida where they could safely work and play outdoors. While this was a great boost to our economy, it created a disproportionate need for housing, as did an increase in businesses opening/relocating to the state, and unfortunate events such as Hurricane Ian.
In response to the latter, Sarasota County received a grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for $201.5 million. $40 million was earmarked for affordable housing and at a July 10 meeting, the Sarasota County Commission allocated about $28 million to five out of the 19 applicants for the Resilient SRQ Affordable Housing Program.
In September, the commission will decide how to redistribute the remaining $11.7 million. The Education Foundation of Sarasota County applied for a grant to build affordable housing for teachers and we’re hopeful that we will be considered for a favorable review at the September meeting.
Without attainable housing options and without addressing the cost-of-living gap for Sarasota’s cost burdened workforce, our entire community pays the price. We can boast about paradise all we want, but the answer is as clear as our pristine waters: if we cannot attract and retain the best teachers to educate our students, it is Sarasota’s children that suffer the most.
We believe creative solutions can be designed to address this vexing problem, and the Education Foundation is committed to supporting teachers in critical ways, such as providing attainable housing. If you’d like to get involved in developing attainable housing solutions for Sarasota County teachers, please contact me atjvigne@edfoundationsrq.org.
Jennifer Vigne is president and CEO of the Education Foundation of Sarasota County. 
Image courtesy Pixabay..
As we stand at a pivotal moment for Sarasota County's economic future, it is crucial to recognize the profound impact of Sarasota County Schools as a cornerstone of our local economy. Recent polls underscore the community's concern about our economic trajectory in 2024, making this an opportune time to highlight how investments in our public schools enrich educational outcomes and drive economic growth and prosperity for all residents.
Driving Local Employment and Economic Activity
Sarasota County Schools is an educational institution and a major economic force, employing over 5,000 people annually. The district has a long legacy of achievement and consistently attracts high-quality, innovative personnel, not only locally and within the state of Florida, but from across the country and throughout the world.
Our commitment to recruiting, hiring and retaining a talented workforce translates into substantial economic activity, with our employees contributing approximately $450 million annually to local businesses through expenditures on housing, food and other essentials. Moreover, our annual spending of $375 million on local goods, services, and capital projects generates an additional 4,500 jobs and injects $280 million into our local economy.
Investing in Future Generations
Investments in our schools are investments in the future earning potential of our students. Improving educational outcomes – such as increasing test scores by 5% over the next two decades – could lead to a significant $55,000 annual increase in personal per-capita income for our graduates. Furthermore, preparing students for higher education could increase their lifetime earnings by an average of $1.2 million per individual. Pathway programs like apprenticeships offer a remarkable return on investment, with every dollar spent returning $15 in societal benefits.
Enhancing Property Values and Community Well-Being
Strong public schools enhance property values and stimulate housing demand. For every thousand dollars invested in public education, home values in our community increase by an estimated $20,000. Homes near high-performing schools command prices on average of $205,000 higher than those near lower-performing schools. Early childhood education programs boost property values and expand our tax base, potentially generating an additional $2.5 billion in wealth creation over two decades, significantly bolstering property tax revenues.
Fostering Community Prosperity and Reducing Social Costs
Investing in student achievement is not just about economic returns; it enhances community well-being and reduces long-term societal costs. Closing achievement gaps could boost Sarasota County's GDP by billions of dollars annually by 2050. Furthermore, adequate public school funding has been shown to reduce student interactions with the criminal justice system, potentially saving $1.7 million annually in public spending for every 55 graduates.
Continuation of the Millage for Sarasota County Schools
As we approach the decision to maintain our millage ad valorem tax, it is evident that the economic benefit of Sarasota County Schools is vital. Our role as a local economic engine strengthens our community's prosperity – investing in our schools today is an investment in a prosperous future for Sarasota residents and businesses. Please visit sarasotacountyschools.net/referendum to learn more about the referendum on the Nov. 5 ballot for Sarasota County Schools.
Terry Connor is Sarasota County Superintendent of Schools.
Image courtesy Pixabay.
Visit Fresh Harvest, the newly launched weekly farmers market in Downtown Wellen. Fresh Harvest offers a selection of local goods from nearly 40 local vendors. Fresh Harvest takes place every Sunday in Downtown Wellen from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Attendees can peruse different vendor booths and stock up on a variety of goods. Vendors will offer a wide variety of locally grown and produced food, including herbs, spices, cut flowers, teas, canned and preserved fruits and vegetables, syrups, baked goods, pickled foods, fresh seafood, meats, poultry, eggs, milk and prepared food and beverages. A limited selection of craft vendors also participate in the farmers market. For a listing of participating vendors and more information on Fresh Harvest Farmers Market, visit wellenpark.com/events/fresh-harvest-farmers-market. Downtown Wellen, 19745 Wellen Park Blvd., Venice.
As a founding member of the Dover String Quartet, Milena Pajaro-van de Stadt was awarded first prize in multiple international chamber music competitions and received two Grammy nominations. Sarasota Orchestra principal clarinetist Bharat Chandra earned a Grammy nomination for his recording with the Lincoln Trio, and Natalie Nedvetsky is a laureate of several international piano competitions who boasts over 250,000 followers on social media. Their program includes trios by Mozart, Bruch, and Robert Schumann and an arrangement of Prokofiev’s Romeo and Juliet for viola and piano. For more information, visit Artistseriesconcerts.org.
The Grammy Award-winning Catalyst Quartet was founded by the internationally acclaimed Sphinx Organization in 2010. The ensemble believes in the unity that can be achieved through music and seeks to redefine and reimagine the classical music experience. They have toured widely throughout the United States and abroad, including sold-out performances in some of the world’s most prestigious venues. This program includes music by Gershwin, Piazzolla, and Ravel. Tickets are $43 & $63 and the event will be held at the First Presbyterian Church. For more information, visit Artistseriesconcerts.org.
Season subscriptions and individual tickets are going on sale for Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe's highly-anticipated 25th anniversary season, titled "25 Years of Black Heritage." The season features four mainstage productions - "Soul Crooners Solid Gold Edition," "Fences," "Five Guys Named Moe," and WBTT's first-ever tap dancing musical revue, "Syncopated Avenue"; holiday show is "A Motown Christmas." Visit westcoastblacktheatre.org to learn more about WBTT and to purchase tickets and subscriptions.
Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, 1012 N Orange Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
From May 10th- October 18th, Sarasota Opera House will be showing classic movies as timeless as the theater itself. Our Classic Movies at the Opera House series begins on Friday, May 10. HD at the Opera House series begins on June 9. Tickets on sale now! This Marx Brothers classic is a satire about the nature of war, politics, and affairs of the state. Directed by Leo McCarey and starring Groucho, Harpo, Chico and Zeppo Marx, and Margaret Dumont. Running time: 1 hour, 8 minutes
Sarasota Opera, 61 N Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
From May 10th- October 18th, Sarasota Opera House will be showing classic movies as timeless as the theater itself. Our Classic Movies at the Opera House series begins on Friday, May 10. HD at the Opera House series begins on June 9. Tickets on sale now! This American rock and roll musical film is about two competing race car drivers who also compete for the same girl. This film is regarded by Elvis fans and film critics as one of Presley’s best films. Directed by George Sidney and starring Elvis Presley, Ann-Margret, Cesare Danova, and William Demarest. Running time: 1 hour, 25 minutes.
Sarasota Opera, 61 N Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
The A Taste of Art event takes place at Chaz 51 Steakhouse, 549 US 41 Bypass N, Venice. The partnership pairs fine cuisine with fine art and demonstrations every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday evenings, 5-8:30 p.m. Enjoy a meal and interact with artists.
Creative Liberties, 549 US 41 Bypass N, Venice
Senior Friendship Centers announces the continuation of its popular monthly authors series, “Joyful Journeys.” This engaging, free series celebrates the art of storytelling and highlights local authors. Each month, “Joyful Journeys” features a different author who will share their unique insights, captivating stories, and personal experiences. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in lively discussions, participate in Q&A sessions, and connect with fellow literature enthusiasts. These monthly events are on Thursdays, 5-6:30 p.m., at Senior Friendship Centers, 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota. “Joyful Journeys” is free, but registration is required.
Senior Friendship Centers, Senior Friendship Centers, 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota
We are thrilled to announce an exciting new addition to our culinary offerings at Jack Dusty, The Ritz-Carlton, Sarasota’s signature restaurant. Starting this Thursday, May 30, join us for Sushi Thursdays from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Dive into an exquisite selection of sushi and specialty rolls, crafted with the freshest ingredients and inspired by the rich maritime traditions of Sarasota. This weekly event promises a delectable experience while supplies last, so be sure to arrive early and indulge in these flavorful creations. We look forward to welcoming our guests and local residents to Sushi Thursdays at Jack Dusty for an unforgettable dining experience. Reservations can be made on OpenTable or by calling (941) 309-2266.
Jack Dusty, 1111 Ritz Carlton Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236
The Ringling, in collaboration with The Circus Art Conservatory of Sarasota, presents a fantastic, jaw-dropping, fun-filled show for the entire family. The Summer Circus Spectacular showcases some of the most thrilling circus artists from around the world in performances that will entertain and delight audiences of all ages.
The Ringling , 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota, FL 34243
Project Phoenix and Resale will help clients who are starting over due to losing a home through a fire or other life changing events. Residents Sarasota and Charlotte County who have experience said events get household, personal, and or food items at no cost. Must first call for an appointment and be reffered by a local nonprofit.
Project Phoenix and Resale, 36 W Dearborn St., Englewood, FL 34223
All current jobs through the Department of Transportation for road/construction are listed on a map of Florida. Clients of the Women's Resource Center will first apply online and then begin the job search. Local agent for Manatee and Sarasota counties will work directly with client helping with job search and building a resume. Currently, they are working to promote womrn in this field.
The Womens Resource Center, 340 S Tuttle Ave, Sarasota, FL 34237
SRQ DAILY is produced by SRQ | The Magazine. Note: The views and opinions expressed in the Saturday Perspectives Edition and in the Letters department of SRQ DAILY are those of the author(s) and do not imply endorsement by SRQ Media. Senior Editor Jacob Ogles edits the Saturday Perspective Edition, Letters and Guest Contributor columns.In the CocoTele department, SRQ DAILY is providing excerpts from news releases as a public service. Reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by SRQ DAILY. The views expressed by individuals are their own and their appearance in this section does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. For rates on SRQ DAILY banner advertising and sponsored content opportunities, please contact Ashley Ryan Cannon at 941-365-7702 x211 or via email |
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