Our 16-year-old son Lucas has attended the Fountain Hills public schools his entire education period and is now in his 12th year.

We have been very pleased with the education he has received...from his wonderful teachers, principals, coaches, staff and fellow volunteer parents. Our son has developed academically and socially but, even more importantly, his character has been strengthened. We are very grateful.

As we look at this beautiful town...where it is today and where it is planning on going...we believe it is imperative to vote “yes” twice on Nov. 5 to both the school bond and budget override initiatives. Our schools are already excelling academically, rated in the top 25 districts statewide out of 228 districts. Our goal is to keep that position.

Fountain Hills’ public schools have come a long way over the past decade. We feel the momentum and want to do everything possible to sustain that momentum.

We strongly urge all voters...those with kids and those without kids....those who work and those who are retired...to please become familiar with the two initiatives. Your heartfelt vote will help secure continuing excellence for our future generation of children.

We’re voting “yes” twice on Nov. 5 for our school initiatives. We hope you will too.