Jefferson Parish Schools' half-cent sales tax renewal has earned the support of Gambit.

"The school board’s sales tax renewal will generate $57 million a year for public education," stated a commentary on the April 30 election. "That revenue is critical to raising teacher salaries, expanding technology and enhancing school facilities. It will not increase taxes; it merely renews an existing sales tax of 0.25% — a minuscule levy that provides badly needed revenue for public education."

Jefferson Parish citizens will be asked to renew a half-cent sales tax on April 30 that helps Jefferson Parish Schools meet the needs of children. This half-cent renewal supports foundational needs like school counselors and social workers, salaries and benefits for teachers and staff, updated learning materials and technology, and the maintenance, safety, and upkeep of the district's aging facilities. This half-cent sales tax is a renewal. It is not a new tax and there is no additional cost to taxpayers. Early voting is April 16-23 and election day is April 30. For more information, visit jpschools.org/VoteApril30.

Gambit is a locally owned newspaper and one of the most successful weeklies in the country. Papers are distributed every week to over 300 locations throughout the metro New Orleans area. It's the recipient of numerous annual awards for editorial and design achievement.