Don’t let these Florida and Tampa Bay races fall under the radar Tuesday | Editorial

The Tampa Bay Times Editorial Board has already published detailed recommendations in dozens of individual races and statewide and local ballot measures in Tuesday's general election, which can be found here . But we wanted to highlight a few key matchups that either carry additional weight or threaten to fall under the voters' radar given the length of the ballot. Early voting continues through Sunday in Pinellas and Hillsborough counties and polls are open Tuesday 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Hillsborough County School Board: Lynn Gray

Voters made smart choices in settling three of the four Hillsborough County School Board races this year, and they have final chance Tuesday to bolster the local schools by electing Lynn Gray to another term.

Gray, a longtime educator, is a seasoned and sensible voice for the times. Beyond governing with ability and experience, Gray would help keep the culture wars at bay, focusing instead on student achievement. Her opponent, Karen Bendorf, offers little of substance, and doesn't seem to appreciate the county's diversity or the financial needs of a large school system. That's the last thing voters need in this countywide District 7 seat.

Gray brings to office those qualities that are all too lacking in politics today. Her respect for others, willingness to listen and collaborative style embody the very traits the school system exists to instill. The coming four years mark a critical period for Hillsborough, and with Gray, voters can be confident that the school system will better prepare today's students for tomorrow's jobs. The district has made notable strides in the last couple years, and reelecting Gray will continue that momentum.

Statewide Constitutional Amendment 1: Partisan school board elections

This measure is the worst referendum the Republican-run Legislature put on the statewide ballot this year. It would further politicize school boards, embolden party bosses and disenfranchise millions of independent-minded Floridians from shaping their local school systems.

School board elections in Florida are nonpartisan. That means all registered voters, regardless of party affiliation, have a say in who controls their local schools. But Amendment 1 would require school board candidates to be elected in partisan races. That would only increase the power of the major parties to recruit pliant candidates and run mean-spirited campaigns, with children being the losers.

Changing these elections to closed primaries, where only voters registered with a designated party could participate, would leave millions of Floridians who are registered as independents without a voice. It opens the floodgates for special-interest money to pollute the debate over education policy. And it would give politically connected candidates the edge over the usual crop of former teachers, involved parents and school volunteers who often run for school board. This corrosive idea deserves a resounding no vote.

Referendums in Pinellas, Hillsborough to increase teacher pay

To continue with education, voters in Pinellas and Hillsborough counties will vote in nonpartisan referendums whether to increase local property taxes to raise teacher pay. These investments are essential for student success and regional prosperity.

For 20 years, Pinellas voters have overwhelmingly supported the school tax, which costs property owners 50 cents for every $1,000 of assessed value. The referendum Tuesday would increase that tax to $1 for every $1,000 of assessed value. Hillsborough is also asking voters to approve the same levy to supplement school operations. Twenty-five of Florida's 67 counties levy such a tax, which is key in competing for teachers.

The state's failure to adequately support education has forced local communities to dig deeper. But these taxes have enjoyed bipartisan support across the state. The money helps attract and retain the best and brightest teachers and enrich the academic experience, from expanding arts programs and field trip opportunities to augmenting career counseling. These are the building blocks that help students succeed and regions grow a talented workforce. Voters in both counties should show their support by voting yes on Tuesday.