As board members of Aurora Public Schools we wholeheartedly support ballot initiatives 5A and 5B, which are crucial for the future of our students, our schools, and our community. These initiatives represent a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and ensuring that every child in our district can power their potential. We are especially excited to endorse these ballot initiatives that would mean NO net tax increase for Aurora voters.
Why 5A and 5B Matter
Initiative 5A is a proposed $30 million annual tax levy that would provide funding for ongoing capital expenses. This would allow us to invest in crucial needs such as recruiting and retaining teachers, maintaining mental health professionals, and expanding educational programming. In an ever-evolving educational landscape, we must ensure our students are equipped with the tools they need to succeed. This funding will directly benefit our teachers and staff, enabling them to provide a more enriching educational experience for our students.
Initiative 5B is a proposed $1 billion investment aimed at planning for the future. It will allow APS to build new schools and improve existing schools throughout the district. It focuses on creating safe, equitable and innovative learning environments for students and staff. This is a critical investment in our community’s future.
A Resolution for Change
In support of these initiatives, the Aurora Public Schools Board of Education passed a resolution affirming our commitment to providing an exceptional educational environment. The resolution outlines our dedication to fostering academic excellence, promoting equity, and ensuring that all students have access to the resources they need to succeed. By supporting 5A and 5B, we are taking a decisive step toward making our vision a reality.
Community Impact
Supporting 5A and 5B is not just an investment in our schools. It is an investment in the future of Aurora. The implications of these initiatives extend beyond the classroom. Improved funding will lead to better job training programs, after-school activities, and mental health resources, contributing to a stronger, healthier community overall. When our schools thrive, our neighborhoods thrive.
No matter your zip code or economic background, every APS student deserves to learn and grow in the best educational environment. This demands an equitable allocation of resources. There are no “haves vs. have nots” in APS. We strive to be a destination district for all of our students. Whether families choose a traditional school, magnet school, special program, or district-approved charter school, we are committed to ensuring that every student powers their potential.
Investing in the Future WITHOUT Increasing Taxes
We understand that tax implications are a major concern for many residents. Ballot initiatives 5A and 5B come without a tax increase for homeowners. Thus, we hope all Aurora voters will choose to invest in academic success and the long-term prosperity of our community. By voting YES on 5A and 5B, you are choosing to prioritize education and the future of Aurora.
Join Us in Supporting Our Schools
We urge every member of our community to get involved and vote YES on initiatives 5A and 5B. Your support will directly impact the quality of education our children receive and will lay the groundwork. Together, we can ensure that our schools have the resources they need to prepare our students for success, both academically and personally. Let’s invest in our students and build a stronger and brighter foundation for the future of Aurora.
Your voice matters. Vote YES on 5A and 5B!
Submitted by the Aurora Public Schools Board of Education
Anne Keke, President
Michael Carter, Vice President
Danielle Tomwing, Secretary
Tiffany Tasker, Treasurer
Tramaine Duncan, M.Ed, Director
Dr. Debbie Gerkin, Director
Vicki Reinhard, Director