In his letter in the Sept. 1 issue of The Sun, Mike Persichetty states that the school boards are "sucking the taxpayer dry."

Our local school districts will be asking for a parcel tax and a bond measure this November.

For the past few years, I have attended most Sunnyvale school board meetings. These meetings are open to the public, as is their budget, but I am often the only community member at these meetings.

Last winter, the district held multiple meetings in the community, seeking input on their budget. I was one of three people who attended one session.

I have read the district's budget for many years, and I don't know of any business that is run more efficiently.

Like Mr. Persichetty, I am a property owner and one of the best investments I have is my home. But the value of my home is tied to the quality of our schools. More importantly, the quality of our community depends on excellent schools.

And no, Mr. Persichetty, I am not stupid. I educate myself on the issues. I also volunteer my time to help the schools--that doesn't cost me a cent. I care deeply for my community. My family is struggling to pay its bills, so I know it's hard to have any increase.

I urge the residents in this community to educate themselves on this need and to support our schools.

Charlene Loomis

Sunnyvale