MADISON – The Schools Foundations promotes renewing property taxes to fund Madison City Schools, Madison County Schools and Huntsville City Schools. Voters can mark “For” to continue these taxes on the Dec. 12 ballot, which will decide Alabama’s U.S. senator.

A 501(c)3 non-profit organization, The Schools Foundation assists the three public school systems in Madison County and works to create higher expectations and widespread community support, leading to world-class performance of principals, teachers and students. (theschoolsfoundation.org)

This tax is not new, nor is it a tax increase. It is not a general fund tax. Voting ‘For’ simply will renew current tax at the same rate to fund our schools, a foundation spokesperson said.

On Dec. 12, Madison County voters will see several property tax renewals on their ballot. “These property taxes currently provide a total of $58 million in local education funding and must be renewed. This renewal is critical for our children, as every local public school receives resources as a result of this funding,” according to The Schools Foundation.

The Schools Foundation stated three facts that underline the importance of the tax renewal:

* Funding our future — Revenue generated by the property tax is essential to schools’ ability to prepare children to compete in the 21st Century.

* Renewing our commitment — Property taxes must be renewed at least every 30 years. The taxes that voters will see on the Dec. 12 ballot must be renewed before the levy of these taxes expires. “Our community has always rallied behind our schools to maintain this funding, and it is time to do it again,” a spokesperson said.

* Keeping it local — The renewals are solely for school funding and are distributed among the three local school systems — Huntsville, City of Madison and Madison County. “A vote for the renewal is a vote for our community. Vote ‘FOR’ the renewals,” a spokesperson said.

The current total of annual funding for public schools at stake is $58,450,000, which includes $14,300,000 million for Madison County Schools; $37,650,000 for Huntsville City Schools; and $6,500,000 for Madison City Schools.

The Schools Foundation serves as an education advocate. The foundation’s continuous interaction with local and state boards of education and education leaders serves as a vehicle for individuals and businesses to support public education.

For more information, visit theschoolsfoundation.org or Facebook/The Schools Foundation or madisoncity.k12.al.us.