There are three reasons why River Forest residents should vote YES on March 21st. All of them begin with PRESERVE. Voting YES will:

- Preserve property values
- Preserve academic excellence
- Preserve the strength and reputation of our community

Property Values

Passage of the referendum is an investment in the community and its real estate values.

“When it comes to home prices, school matters. Buyers will pay a premium to live near top schools,” according to CNN/Money, August 30, 2004.

In River Forest, the percentage change in sales price of homes increased by 234.18% since 1994. River Forest experienced the second largest increase in home prices in the suburban communities measured by Chicago Magazine, based on data from the Multiple Listing Service of Northern Illinois.

Academic Excellence

Passage of the referendum allows the public schools to maintain their record of academic excellence. The River Forest District 90 schools are known for:

• A philosophy of teaching to every child’s unique potential. This is achieved through differentiated instruction for each child and small class sizes.
• Award-winning education. Consistent recognition by local and national educational rating sources.
• A focus on the whole child. River Forest students have the opportunity to participate in music, art, band, orchestra, foreign language, inter-scholastic sports and clubs.

Strength and Reputation of Our Community

We will safeguard River Forest's reputation as a strong and caring community by passing the referendum. Community strengths include:

• Readying our children to be productive, responsible citizens
• Instilling the love of learning
• Nurturing respect for others
• Providing contributions in art, music, literature and adult education
• Demonstrating confidence in our children's ability to succeed
• Preserving River Forest's reputation for academic excellence
• Continuing reputation as a community sought out by home buyers