Invest in our future, support Wakulla’s schools
By RICK MYHRE School Superintendent
When people hear the word “referendum,” they often think about taxes, government, or budgets.
But this referendum is not really about any of those things.
It’s about people.
It’s about the child who needs a caring teacher, the student who depends on breakfast and lunch at school, the band member finding confidence through music, the athlete learning discipline on a field, the artist discovering a talent, and the teacher who pours their heart into our children every single day.
I understand what we are asking. I know every dollar matters. I know there are families, retirees, and working people throughout Wakulla County who carefully watch their budgets, and I respect that. Asking for additional local support is not something I take lightly.
Before making this request, I believe we had a responsibility to do our part first.
Some have said we should cut administration. We have. Others have said administrators are paid too much, but the facts simply do not support that claim. We have made difficult decisions and remained focused on the classroom. Those decisions have helped us reach a point where every school is now an A school, teacher pay has reached more competitive levels, employee insurance costs have remained stable, and student services continue to grow.
We are incredibly grateful for the educational funding we receive from our Governor and State Legislature. Their support matters, and we appreciate it. But Florida law recognizes that local communities may choose to invest beyond the minimum level funded through the state budget, and more than 30 percent of Florida’s school districts have chosen to do exactly that.
The timing of this referendum may seem unusual given the broader conversations happening across our state regarding homestead exemptions. But we can only place this question before voters during a general election. This is our opportunity to decide what kind of future we want for Wakulla County.
When I asked for the privilege of serving as your Superintendent, I promised to be the chief advocate for students and teachers. That’s what I am doing today.
The future of state funding is uncertain. The future needs of our children are not.
This referendum provides stability. It protects fair compensation for our employees. It helps ensure food for children, support for classrooms, and opportunities in art, music, athletics, and career programs regardless of what challenges may come tomorrow.
As Christians, many of us believe we are called to do as much good as we can with what God has entrusted to us. This referendum is an opportunity to do exactly that.
I ask you to close your eyes and look beyond the ballot question and see the faces of the children it serves. Picture their future in four years with your additional support, and picture it without it.
Please join me in knowing that when the moment came, you answered their call for support. Please join me in investing in their future.
Please vote yes.
Rick Myhre is the Superintendent of Wakulla County Schools.