As you consider voting Yes on Measure W, there is more to the story. Voters and taxpayers should also know that parents are working behind the scenes to ensure the long-term fiscal health of the Davis Joint Unified School District .

Through our children, parents are involved in schools for at least sixteen years so naturally we have a long-term stake in the health of the school district.  We are concerned both with the quality of educational programs, and the district's financial stability – ensuring a steady and sustainable income, and living within our means.

Public school finance is laden with layers of regulation, attached strings, and confusing terminology. We are fortunate that the current district administration strives for transparency in making information available, and making it understandable.

Along with other parents and taxpayers, I sit on the DJUSD Business Advisory Committee that delves into many aspects of the district's business operations, and reviews audits conducted by county and state agencies. In the future this Business Advisory may be involved in promoting or developing a long-term financial plan, and helping the community see the fiscal trade-offs when considering various program and policy decisions.  A related committee conducted a budget forum last spring to make sense of the current funding crisis.

I also participate with a group of volunteers working the halls of the state capitol to develop the relationships necessary to understand and influence public education legislation and policy. While the odds are long in making a real difference, the odds are nil if we don't try.

Join us – parents and taxpayers – as we partner with our elected policymakers and district staff to define and fund the education that we need for our kids. Yes on W.

Richard Reed