School Override Campaigns

School override ballot measures often bring out the most ardent supporters on both sides of the aisle. School overrides and levies are common place across the nation asking local voters within the school district to add a secondary tax for local schools. This is in addition to their primary school tax shared across the state.

As a school district we seek to get information out to the voters so they can make an informed decision. Our biggest fear is not the facts but misinformation or misconceptions that become part of the local community belief system.

For example, a recent "Letter to the Editor" in the FH Times criticized the district office and this superintendent for not returning a voter's phone regarding questions on the override. We researched this to apologize but found out the caller had phoned the Office of the Maricopa County Schools, a 602 area code number. Still another three-page handwritten letter placed on cars in the Basha's parking lot criticized and implied salaries for our School Board of Directors calling them "fat cats." Our school board receives no compensation for their many hours of service for our district's students and famlies.

It serves the greater good not to point out or call out these individuals in the local media. Rather, it shows the continuing need for the district to make every effort in communicating information and serving our community so they can make their choices based in information that is factual and current. We welcome your questions and need for information. Do not hesitate to call or e-mail us to meet your future informational needs. My direct line is 480-664-5010 or
e-mail me at bmyhr@fhusd.org