To the editor:

Once again, I am compelled to write to our local public and urge our constituents to please support the Edison Local School levy.

We have this continuous and dire need due to the rising costs of operating a school district and the falling revenues that we receive. Year after year numerous cuts have been made to reduce expenditures. Our supplies have been reduced, our teaching and support staff has decreased, yet we continue to do the job and educate our... your kids.

In Edison Local last year alone, three buildings received the coveted School of Excellence designation - my beloved John Gregg Elementary, Pleasant Hill Elementary and Edison High School.

John Gregg alone has been named a School of Promise at least six years since the No Child Left Behind program was established.

Edison Local employees are to be applauded for their tenacious determination to do the job with the resources at hand.

However, the adage, "It takes a village to raise a child," has never been so true. As I listen to the news and hear of dreadful, unimaginable acts that happen to young children around this country, I am thankful that our area/district is a safe haven for our children. Our schools are safe, well managed and centers of activity in their respective communities. This cannot continue without public taxpayer support, however. We need your help.

The operating levy on this year's ballot is a renewal and will not raise anyone's taxes. If we do not pass this renewal, drastic, critical and unpopular decisions will have to be made. We can prevent heartbreaking consequences by supporting the district we have and maintaining our current programs and buildings.

Please support the Edison Local operating levy renewal. Support your child, grandchild - all of our children - for the greatest gift you can give any child is knowledge and a sound education. Our future depends on your vote.

Randi D. Bake,

Carrollton

John Gregg Elementary teacher