Portland School Committee Stands Up For Students – Endorses Question 2

Portland School Committee voted unanimously to endorse a Yes On 2 vote, for tax fairness and greater opportunity in Portland schools

PORTLAND, ME – The Portland School Committee is the latest municipal board to Stand Up for Students by passing a resolution in support of Question 2 on Maine’s November ballot.

Do you want to add a 3% tax on individual Maine taxable income above $200,000 to create a state fund that would provide direct support for student learning in kindergarten through 12th grade public education?

The resolution notes, “when the state fails to pay its share of school funding, our children and our communities suffer, as towns have to make up the difference, often by raising property taxes, cutting services, or both.”

Question 2 is the solution to the problem of the state failing to meet its obligation to fund 55% of the cost of public education. This failure has resulted in municipalities having to either fill the funding gap through increased property taxes or cut their local education budgets, reducing the opportunities for students. Children in less affluent communities suffer this loss of opportunity acutely.

School board Chair Marnie Morrione noted that Question 2 is supported by groups including the Maine Children’s Alliance, the Maine PTA, the Maine Association of School Libraries, other municipal boards, and legislators around the state.

By endorsing a “Yes” vote on Question 2, the Portland School Committee is promoting a future where every Maine child receives a great education at a great public school regardless of zip code.