Four years ago the South Kitsap community was faced with a tremendous challenge – passage of the school levy. At that time, the group CLASS was created, “Community Leaders Affirming Support for Schools.” It consisted of local business men and women, members of local government, clergy and a wide assortment of concerned citizens, all united in their belief that quality schools help build a quality community.
   We believed it then and believe it now.
   When CLASS was initially created, both Don Cox and I had children in the South Kitsap School District. Today neither of us do, but that has not diminished our belief in the importance of continuing our community wide commitment of support granted four years ago for the levy due to expire in 2005.
   Supporting local schools brings new jobs and opportunities to South Kitsap and creates a vibrant business community. It also brings new people into the area, which helps existing businesses grow and flourish.
   This levy funds 18 percent of the total district budget. This is NOT a new tax, but is a replacement levy that funds bus transportation, additional teachers and technology upgrades. If your family budget were suddenly decreased by 18 percent, what would you have to cut?
   Therefore, we are once again at a critical crossroad. Last time the School District was forced to identify cuts, many of which were put into affect after the first levy failure. The choices were horrifying then and they will be again, including limited bus transportation, eliminating all community use of school facilities, and all extracurricular activities, (band, drama, sports, music, German Club – the list is extensive). These types of activities are critical for a well-rounded education. They are also vitally important to students who are applying for administration to colleges, universities, and vocational institutes.
   So it is once again decision time. We believe the South Kitsap community is stronger today than it was four years ago. We also believe passage of the levy was a major component. We urge all voters to continue to support our children and our community by voting YES on February 8. Backwards is not an option!

CLASS
Bill Evans
Don Cox
Port Orchard