During a recent meeting of the Topeka Public Schools Board of Education, community member Lynelle Griffith raised significant concerns regarding rising property taxes and their impact on local families. Griffith emphasized that many residents are struggling to keep up with increasing tax bills, which she described as a hardship that could lead some individuals to lose their homes.

Griffith pointed out that a substantial portion of her property tax bill goes to the school district, despite her children primarily attending private school and homeschooling. She urged the board to consider ways to provide property tax relief, suggesting that a review of the budget could uncover potential cuts that would ease the financial burden on taxpayers.

In addition to addressing tax concerns, Griffith proposed a solution that could benefit both the school district and families who do not utilize public school facilities. She suggested allowing homeschooling and private school families to rent school facilities at cost when they are not in use. This would provide affordable options for extracurricular activities, such as sports and drama, which can be difficult to access for those outside the public school system.

Griffith's proposal resonated with the board, as they acknowledged that some local private schools already use district facilities, albeit not at cost. The board expressed interest in exploring Griffith's idea further, recognizing the potential benefits for the community and taxpayers.

As discussions continue, the board is expected to consider Griffith's suggestions in the context of broader community needs and the ongoing challenge of balancing budgets with the financial realities faced by residents. The meeting highlighted the importance of community engagement in shaping educational policies and addressing local concerns.