Since the start of the special school levy, The Morgan Messenger has supported Morgan County’s School Excess Levy – the locally-approved tax that adds dollars to the better functioning of the Morgan County school system.

Now, more than ever before, these local dollars from us ensure that students have what they need to succeed in their public education. The excess levy accounts for around 18% of Morgan County Schools annual budget.

We used to talk about it providing “extras” for county students above what West Virginia school aid would provide. Today, the excess levy actually pays for essentials – staff and programs that our state government requires of our schools but doesn’t pay for.

A strong argument could be made that our counties shouldn’t have to pass an excess levy. But we do.

The State of West Virginia could fund our public schools more fully and currently boasts excess revenue. But state lawmakers have not adjusted the state school aid formula to evolve with changing needs at the classroom level. During a recent candidate forum, members of both parties uniformly said that fully and fairly funding public education is a top priority for our county, our district and our state. We are hopeful they can succeed in that mission.

In the meantime, more than 2,000 Morgan County youth need properly-trained teachers in every subject. They need emotional and mental health supports in their schools. They need access to the technology they’ll use in every aspect of life. They need alternative education and career programs. They need music, arts and athletics. These are the things the excess levy pays for.

We urge voters to vote Yes to its renewal on the non-partisan ballot on May 12.

Unlike many of the taxes we pay, this particular school tax lets us make a direct impact on the betterment of our own community. Students who get a well-rounded public education become better citizens and learn to strive not just for themselves but with their fellow students. We can amplify their potential and their dreams by adding to the resources they have at school. Supporting our local school excess levy sends the message to Morgan County students that they are worth investing in – today and for the future.