As Oak Harbor homeowners and voters, we are writing in support of the school maintenance levy. With two children in elementary school when we moved to northern Virginia last April, we were concerned about the transition to one of the top rated school districts in the country. The boys were in first and third grade at the time, solid students, but not dramatically above average.

The third-grader arrived a few weeks before the Virginia Standards of Learning tests were given. His teacher said she probably wouldn’t factor his scores in since he’d arrived so late in the year, but he’d take the tests anyway to identify the subjects he could work on over the summer. The tests covered social sciences, math, science and language arts. Not only did he pass, he scored advanced in one area and one point away from advanced in another. Our meeting with our first grader’s teacher indicated he was right where he needed to be.

Both boys finished the year with solid, positive report cards that have continued into this school year. Again, they have to work for their grades. Our reason for sharing this is not to brag, but to commend the citizens of Oak Harbor who voted to increase school funding and the school district for implementing it appropriately. Art, music and physical education teach more than the obvious, students learn about symmetry, perspective, timing, following rules and so much more.

The hot lunch program is another improvement that enhances a child’s learning ability. Oak Harbor schools have made substantial and measurable progress in all areas that prepare students for the future, and it must continue. This produces young adults who are able to explore and select fulfilling options in their lives. This outcome benefits every Oak Harbor resident and property owner, with or without school-age children.

Sean and Jennifer O’Brien

Clifton, Va.