Taxpayers

Businesses need a source of funding to purchase equipment, pay employees, obtain materials and pay for operating costs. This funding comes through customer revenue or an outside source of investment in exchange for ownership in the company. This investment comes from shareholders or, in the case of education, the taxpayers. The contribution of the taxpayers, as shareholders, to the public education system should not be overlooked.

There are many positive attributes that public education brings to the community. Communities with a strong public education system have lower crime rates. Businesses locate their offices and factories in locations with an educated populace. New businesses bring economic growth and development that helps keep the community vibrant. The education system is a good investment by the community.

Since the educational system is funded by the taxpayer, there exists a critical trust between the taxpayer and the system. The district has the responsibility to ensure that every dollar is spent in the wisest manner possible. The board of education has approval authority for the budget and should take an active role in the budgeting process. A tax rate should not be assessed just because it is allowed. A position, program or building should not continue just because it has existed in the past. The taxpayer money needs to be spent in the most judicious way. I believe that the board of education needs to always remember where the educational funding comes from when making spending decisions. If this belief is followed and communicated, the taxpayer will see their contribution at work, know that it was spent wisely and be supportive of public education.

My last three entries have been about customers, employees and shareholders. These three are the legs of any successful business. If any one is missing, the business will not succeed. The educational system should be treated with the same focus and not forget these vital areas. If the schools are successful with this focus, students will learn, parents will be involved, teachers will enjoy career satisfaction and the taxpayer will feel that their investment in public education is well spent.