EDITORIAL: Participate in Tuesday’s school vote

   With polls open from 2 to 9 p.m. Tuesday, we encourage voters to head to polling locations to decide the fate of the proposed school budget, and to select the members of the Board of Education.
   The district is seeking approval to spend $109 million in the 2009-2010 school year, which would add about $35.50 to the average property tax bill in Hillsborough if approved. Voters will also fill three seats on the board, two held by incumbents seeking re-election.
   This year, we’re spared any special questions for extraordinary expenses, or referenda on projects at the schools.
   Such issues often draw more attention to the spring elections, but we’re hoping a high percentage of Hillsborough’s energized and attentive electorate will vote anyway. Election of board members and approval or disapproval of the school budget are critical decisions with impacts on the township’s future, and residents must be clear in their decisions.
   But residents should review all of the information regarding the school budget and candidates available before deciding how to vote. Read the letters to the editor, talk to your neighbors and visit the state Education Department schools report card Web site (www.state.nj.us/education) to review the district’s goals, results and spending.
   Six residents are seeking election to the three seats on the Board of Education —read about the candidates and talk to your neighbors about the candidates.
   Think about the board and then decide.
   And after deciding, vote.
   Everyone has a stake in the school district and should take the time to vote on Tuesday.