April 1, 2010 is Census Day. An accurate census of our area will benefit our school district and community by influencing the distribution of $300 billion in federal funds earmarked for states and local communities. In order to accomplish this, it is important that everyone participates. Census information is confidential by law and no other agency has access to the personal data.

I have included information for you to share with other community members.

* The U.S. census is taken every 10 years.

* Census questionnaires will be mailed or delivered to households in March.

* The questionnaire is short and asks only a few simple questions-name, relationship, gender, age and date of birth, race and whether the respondent owns or rents his or her home.

* Questionnaires are returned by mail.

* Census takers will visit households between April and July if the questionnaires have not been returned by April 1.

How is census information used?

* To distribute Title 1 and special education funding, which impacts school district budgets

* To distribute funds for college tuition grant and loan programs

* To build new roads and plan for public transportation

* To redistrict state legislatures, county and city councils and voting districts

* To determine areas eligible for housing assistance

* To plan for hospitals, nursing homes and clinics

* To direct funds for people in poverty

* To develop assistance programs for low-income families

Taking the time to complete the census form supports our school district and the Cy-Fair community.

Sincerely,

Dr. David Anthony, superintendent
Cypress-Fairbanks ISD