We have cut and reduced costs and we run in a lean manner.

Now, it is no longer
enough.
 <<Need some data point about how serious this is--maybe that we only have
enough to keep our doors open for XX weeks/days. NO cash balance or deficit
spending kind of language here>>
 Graham teachers are essential to the quality of education in our schools.
 Our teachers and staff have shared in the sacrifice of our school district’s tough
economic times. This has helped save the district over $9.5 million in wages and
benefits over the past five-year period.

Further cuts and reductions mean that we cannot maintain the current quality in
our schools.
 Cuts hurt. The last time we made deep cuts student test scores dropped
significantly on state tests.
 We cannot continue cutting, reducing and slashing our budget and expect the
same quality of education.
 Our schools are falling behind. Enacting further cuts would only worsen this
divide.
 Our teachers need more resources so that our Graham students do not fall
behind. Resources like up-to-date technology, classrooms, textbooks and lab
materials along with additional science, technology and academic programs.

We pay less to our schools than nearly every district in the seven county area.
 Even with the passage of the May 8 levy we would still pay among the very
lowest.

We can do better but not with continued strains to our budget. Delaying the need
and having to plan for future cost reductions would harm the quality of education
that we value in Graham.

 If the May 8 ballot issue passes, we can protect and maintain what we have in
our schools right now.
 If it does not pass, we must enact deep cuts and reductions
districtwide. Moreover, the need does not go away with failure and the district
will need to return for additional operating dollars.
 Cuts are not a threat. Rather, they reflect the seriousness of what we are facing
and we want to be open and transparent with our public as to what we are facing.
 The board approved a list of cuts that will occur if the levy does not pass. They
did this because they want to be transparent with the community. The cuts would
go into effect if the levy does not pass on May 8.