Seattle Public Schools face crucial votes. More precisely, the 45,000-plus students face big votes on the quality of their education.

Despite all the controversies that at times surround the school system's leadership, the issue before city voters on the Feb. 6 ballot is very much about how well students can prepare for the future. A $397 million operations levy, which will be Proposition 2 on the ballot, will provide nearly one-quarter of the school's funding for three years. A $490 million, six-year capital bond, Proposition 1, will provide much-needed renovations at six middle and high schools, as well as water- and air-quality improvements.

Voters should say yes to Propositions 1 and 2. Both are critical to good education, to establishing a fairer system of schooling and to maintaining the very good work done by so many students, teachers, staff members and schools.

Seattle voters have an exceptional record of support for schools. Local business, civic and political leaders have done themselves proud over the years. Among business groups, for instance, the Greater Seattle Chamber of Commerce and the Alliance for Education have voted unanimous support for the two measures, despite concerns among their members about some School Board directions. Mayor Greg Nickels and former Mayor Norm Rice, both critical of schools, are among the honorary co-chairmen. They are providing examples of pulling together for something while continuing to hold differing views about policy or leadership styles.

Stephan Blanford of the Alliance for Education said there is a broad recognition that many of the difficult issues facing schools are pushed by the limited amounts of money provided schools in Washington. Providing local money for schools is the one way to head off making the controversies worse. More important, local support is what Seattle's children need for schools.

On the Net: A podcast of an Editorial Board meeting with representatives of Schools First is available at seattlepi.com/opinion.

Soundoff (Read 8 comments)
Tell us what's on your mind.