Democracy is alive and well in Stowe. There were over 1,500 votes cast yesterday on the proposed bond and the four informational meetings reflected strong attendance, insightful questions and a sincere interest in being informed. The final count was 983 to 562. Although the capital improvement bond was not approved, there were certainly many positive outcomes.
Over the past few months, I have had the chance to tour countless residents through our middle and high school and engage in discussions around the education funding system in Vermont, the impressive academic performance of students, and the non-negotiable capital needs that must be addressed within the next five years. What is clear is that this was not a vote against the schools, it was a vote against the way schools are funded in Vermont.
It often feels as though our school system is fighting an uphill battle due to increasing taxes and no state funding for capital improvement. Following the tours, every participant agreed that our schools need a significant investment. A great deal of frustration was evident, however, that Stowe is facing serious tax pressure due to reappraisal and the new legislation (Act 127) that will disadvantage Stowe with a 15 percent tax increase.
This was challenging for our subcommittee as it grappled with the reality that changing this system is unlikely, yet the potential for construction costs to increase seems certain.
The number one influence on student achievement is the teacher and we are very grateful for the community’s support of a budget that allows us to recruit and retain the best educators. We will continue to operate in a way that provides full transparency and maintains trust with our community. We kindly ask that you stay engaged in the discussion and advocate for our town through state legislators and officials.
If you voted no, please take a second to complete this two-question, anonymous form that will help with future planning: bit.ly/3Qn6b08.
I want to thank the board members and volunteers that have dedicated hundreds of hours of their own time, often during the summer, over the weekend and at night. You are appreciated.
Ryan Heraty is superintendent of the Lamoille South Supervisory Union.
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