Dear Editor,

In regards to the mill levy override that Garfield School District Re-2 is requesting, I believe that the amount of additional tax for this override will be negligible to nil within a few years, due to the projected growth in assessed valuation, coupled with the significant reduction in residential property tax burden provided by the Gallagher Amendment. The affect of the override to the district, however, will be staggering.

If the override passes, then Coal Ridge and Rifle High School will offer programs similar to what are currently offered at Rifle High School. Raises will ensure quality teachers and staff will stay, which is vital to improving student achievement.

Optional full-day kindergarten will be available to assure our children get a head start in education. Before- and after-school programs will be available at a fee to enrich educational and social opportunities for our children. To assure safety, one security officer will be on sight at every middle school and high school.

If the override does not pass, then the staff and programs at Rifle High School will be split with Coal Ridge, significantly reducing the quality of education at both schools. Fees will be charged for sports and peripherals. Teachers and staff may leave to take other opportunities. Re-2 will not be able to afford security officers. Most importantly, there will be significantly more children per class, thereby reducing the quality of education for our children.

The future of education in Re-2 is relying on this override. Please vote “yes” in November.

Sincerely,

Marla Nelson

Rifle