Educate yourself before voting

"An educated consumer is our best customer" is a familiar advertising slogan that makes a lot of sense. An informed school budget voter makes the best voter; so how can we educate ourselves before we vote on our school budget on May 20?

A recent Amherst Bee editorial criticizing spending for student extracurricular activities in Williamsville focused on a tiny sliver, less than 3 percent, of the overall spending plan. There are two other school districts in the town. I noticed in a recent Bee Heard section where a resident asked for an article showing all three district's proposals.

So, what is a voter to do? What other sources are available to educate us so that a thoughtful vote can be cast? Here are a couple of opportunities for voters to educate themselves more comprehensively. The first is the school district itself. Williamsville's Web site (williamsvillek12.org) has all of the budget information. You can also provide feedback via a link on the Web site. Second, the PTAs also provide many opportunities to become better informed. Williamsville PTSA Council meets on the last Monday of the month at 7 p.m. in the District Office on Casey Road. The spotlight for the council's meeting on April 28 will be the budget. The superintendent will outline the budget, and there will be a question period. Voters who are interested in learning more about School Board candidates should note that the Williamsville PTSA Council Candidates' Night will be held at 7 p.m. May 8 after the special board meeting and budget hearing at 6 p.m., also in the District Office.

It is not hard to become better educated before casting your vote on your school's budget. Take advantage of these opportunities so that you can become the best kind of voter on May 20.
Deborah L. Norris
East Amherst