February 15, 2006

Dear Community Members:

As you probably are aware, the McHenry Elementary School District 15 Board of Education has voted to place a referendum question on the March 21, 2006 ballot. As superintendent of the district, it is my responsibility to factually inform the public as to what is at stake in this election.

The Board of Education is asking for a tax increase in order to:
      - Eliminate an approximate $2 million deficit
      - Improve programs for all students (i.e. textbook purchases)
      - Hire teachers to ease overcrowding
      - Prevent the loss of programs such as art, music, physical education,
         foreign language, sports and technology
      - Prevent reducing teaching staff by about 12%
      - Prevent a shortened student school day (approximately 7 weeks loss
         of instruction time or 20% of the school year)

The Board of Education has voted to eliminate approximately $2.1 million from the budget if the referendum is not successful. By virtually eliminating all non-core academic programs, the student's day would be cut short by one (1) hour. In addition, all school buildings and grounds would be closed to the public and all organizations after school hours in order to save money.

In response to parents requesting additional information, below is a list of facts about District 15:
      - Since 2002-2003, about $3.5 million has been eliminated from the budget
      - The last education fund tax increase (1993) was intended to support
         the district until about the year 2000
      - District 15 has one of the lowest school taxes in the county (11th out of 14)
      - Salaries for teachers and administrators rank in the bottom third of the
         county

The Board of Education is seeking a 27¢ increase in years one, two and three and a 44¢ increase in years four and five. The lower rate for the first three years is a result of the offset by the Board of Education's decision to use the remaining 17¢ of the state construction money. The cost for the referendum is approximately $191.00 (or $15.92 per month) for the owner of a $200,000 home in 2006-2007. For additional information, please contact my office at (815) 385-7210.

The quality of education for our community's children will be impacted significantly if the referendum is not successful. This referendum is truly a community decision. Whether you plan to vote yes or no, please exercise your right to vote on March 21, 2006.

Sincerely,

R. Alan Hoffman