Jeanne Herold says she can’t afford to vote yes for schools (Jan. 8, Auburn Reporter). We say she can’t afford not to.

We need to keep our schools strong. Some people, like us, who do not now have family members of school age, think that they don’t have to support levies anymore. That’s not true. Everyone needs to take the time to vote yes on the Feb. 9 levy.

Here’s why. Auburn now has an excellent school program. Having excellent schools keeps home prices up and crime rates down. Excellent schools have lower dropout rates. Those without a high school diploma often end up needing welfare and low income benefits most of their lives. Some also turn to crime.

Paying for excellent schools is much cheaper than paying for more programs to help the poor and to fight crime.

Failing this levy will mean that many teachers and other school employees will face losing their jobs. Since the number of students in Auburn schools continues to rise, a failed levy will mean bigger class sizes and less individual help for students who need it. This levy also supports sports and other activities that help kids grow and keep many out of trouble.

This levy replaces the one we passed last time, so school taxes will not go up. Herold says school taxes are the majority of her property tax bill. We looked at our tax statement and our portion for schools was far less than half of our bill.

Some people, especially older homeowners like us, say they can’t afford to support schools. Again, we say we can’t afford not to.

– Ken and Fern Valentine