In their editorial appearing in today's paper (Sunday, 27 April), the Ann Arbor News came out strongly in favor of the two school millage proposals on the May 6 ballot. If you did not see the print version, please take a look at it here. In endorsing the proposals, the paper not only asked citizens to vote yes, they make many of the same arguments in support of the millage that the CMC has been making since the start.

The editorial includes a nice summary of the two ballot proposals, helping voters to distinguish homestead vs. non-homestead impact, underlining that they are replacing existing taxes, and explaining how the money will be used. The News' editorial board also makes the key argument that we have been making: that even in these hard times, and especially in these times, we need to secure the foundations of our schools. (The News' editorial board includes Publisher Laurel Champion, Editor Ed Petykiewicz, and Opinion Editor Mary Morgan.)

We are also pleased to note that the leadership of the News expressed their "confidence in the stewardship" of Superintendent Todd Roberts, Deputy Superintendent Robert Allen and their management team, noting their efforts to make the best use of public funds. We feel that Dr. Roberts and his team are a huge asset to the AAPS, and will be enthusiastic and constructive participants in the broader community conversation about the future of our schools.

Lastly, we are gratified that the News leadership feel the CMC has been an asset to the campaign and the community. We fully agree with them that parents and residents of the Ann Arbor Public School district are a wonderful resource for our schools and our community that should tapped more often.

Our thanks to the Ann Arbor News for their important and constructive stance on these critical school funding issues.