I should have no skin in the local education game. I didn’t grow up here, and I don’t have kids. But as a quarter-century Arizonan, I’ve built my career here.

I’ve formed two thriving businesses and two nonprofits in Scottsdale. I serve on boards and committees here. My residence and long-term rentals are in Scottsdale, and I plan to live, work, and volunteer here as long as I am able.

That’s why I’m voting yes on the District Additional Assistance override.

Today’s students will be our caretakers — our doctors, nurses, firefighters, teachers, engineers, plumbers, electricians, construction workers, and the like.

The DAA override, necessitated in large part by increased costs of supplies and materials, provides the Scottsdale Unified School District with funding stability for the next seven years to meet the needs of our students so that they can, in turn, take care of us.

This is not an abstract concept. Think back on what you remember from your own school experience. Classroom instruction was, of course, essential, but some of the most lasting lessons may have occurred at recess, in the library, at a recital, or while playing or watching a sporting event. Reflecting on my own classmates, confidence was built and career paths were chosen based in large part on the “extracurriculars” that make schools feel even more like communities.

Funds from the DAA override hit these needs head-on, as they will be used not only for curriculum materials but also classroom and district technology, fine arts, athletic and library programs and materials, furniture, fixtures and equipment, and playground equipment and facilities.

I can think of no better investment in a community than in its people. We have an opportunity to do that now, and we will reap the benefits for decades.

Please vote yes on the override — by mail or in-person on Election Day, Nov. 8.