As veteran teachers of more than 35 years in the Austin public schools, we have seen the benefits of a strong support system for education from our community members.

With the help of referendum dollars, Austin has been able to develop progressive programming and expanded curriculum to help our students be successful in today's world.

The Legislature froze all monies allocated for the school years 2009-2011. This has decreased the district's cash flow by $6 million. Austin has implemented many efficiencies to offset these losses including energy savings, staffing, long range planning, securing grants, etc.

In the 1980s we experienced devastating effects in our schools because of similar legislative actions. At this same time we didn't have a referendum in place; over a million dollars in cuts were made in the Austin schools. It was disheartening to realize that students had less opportunity to receive the strong education that was expected in Austin.

Within the next several years our community pulled together to pass a referendum. This action stopped the cuts in programming; however, it took several more years to gain back the ground that was lost. Since that time, voters in our district have shown continued support by renewing or extending referendum monies.

On Nov. 3, residents of our school district will again be asked to support referendum dollars to maintain the high quality of education in Austin.

Please vote Yes.

Cheryl Dunlap and Kathy Huffman

Austin

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