taxes

In class Tuesday, we were given an overview of how our taxes go to work for us by funding schools and public education. I must say that I think there are some districts and states that value education more highly than others, and it is so unfortunate that not all districts see this way.

I know I have blogged before about my hometown, but with my parents still working for the school system, I cannot help but keep up tabs. Not that long ago, my town poured money and efforts into the school system. Parents took pride in where their children went because they were as involved in the schools as their children. Fundraisers abounded and families pooled together their time and resources to build playgrounds and fields. Most amazingly, many of the proponents of these projects were people whose children had long been grown, but who knew that the education of children was essential for the town.

The tides have certainly turned back home. Every time I returned home from college, a new box store would be built atop where my childhood memories once stood (ironically, the town does not tax these stores more than they do household – a chance to use these eyesores for some economic stimulus and the town fails to capitalize). The small town community feel disintegrated, and people no longer had the time to concern themselves in any matter that did not directly affect them.

Even more unfortunate, a police officer with a young family was paralyzed while on duty a few years back. The continuing cost of care and rehab falls on the shoulders of the town – which should proudly care for a faithful servant. A small tax increase would have taken care of this issue without a problem, but that has not been the case. The town voted twice to not increase taxes (I think some voters thought that they had the option of paying for the care of the police officer and were trying to vote against it). The decision then, was for the money to be drained from the school department, resulting in the laying off of teachers, large size classrooms, and the closing of two elementary schools. Additionally, citizens have to pay for each bag of garbage that they throw out. Imagine, buying each bag of garbage that you intend to throw out rather than opting for a small tax increase – after all, if you use less garbage than Joe down the street, you are ahead of the game, right? This image only underscores the selfish, individualistic mentality permeating our society.

This beautiful town, established in 1652, had a long standing tradition of commitment to excellence. With everyone looking out only for themselves these days, it maintains only a faint resemblance of its former glory. When the community fails, schools are the first to suffer the consequences.