Students, teachers need our support

Several weeks ago, I was privileged to be able to attend the Glacier High School play “Mary Poppins.” I once again saw the amazing talents of the young actors involved in this production. 

I witnessed the hard work and dedication on the part of the students who were in the play and also so many other high school departments that were included in this production. The high school band, orchestra, choir and many teachers joined together to help make this play so special. 

I can only imagine the many hours and commitment our students and staff put in to learn the music and perfect the dance routines. They worked so very hard and dedicated many long hours in addition to their other classes to entertain our community. They successfully performed six sold out plays and they must have been exhausted. But they each had fun and the process helped to build their confidence which let them know they can accomplish any challenges they might meet in our world. 

I graduated from Flathead County High School. My children and grandchildren also graduated from this excellent school district and now two of my great grandchildren are attending School District 5. All of us have experienced great learning opportunities due to the excellent teachers and staff supporting us. 

I have heard some people in our community say, “I don’t even have kids in school, why should I vote for a levy?” My answer is “Who paid for you and your family’s education?” 

After attending a recent informational meeting led by our School District 5 Superintendent Matt Jensen and School Board Trustee Jinniffer Mairmian, I learned when teachers retire or move on from their positions those positions aren’t being refilled. We need to be able to hire those excellent teachers and we need the levy funds to be able to pay for those important positions. 

Did you know it has been eighteen years since the high school has passed a levy? The impact of reduced funding will be felt as time moves on and the quality of our children’s education will suffer. 

I feel that it’s my turn to pay back our community for the fine education that I received. So, fellow voters, we have a great opportunity on May 6 to vote yes on our high school levy. Our students are indeed our future and they, in cooperation with our fine dedicated, hard-working teachers deserve the very best.

Please join me in affirming our students and teachers by voting yes on May 6.

Bev Larson lives in Kalispell.