Parents are expressing concern and disappointment towards Peoria Unified School District board member Diane Douglas over her opposition to a one-cent sales tax increase as part of axthetax.com.

The district has said it would face a $15 million shortfall should the tax be rejected at the ballot box May 18.

During public comments at last week's board meeting, some parents called for Douglas' resignation, questioning how she could serve both on the school board and as the anti-tax group's treasurer.

Angela Mussi, president of the Peoria United Parent Council, said she was shocked to learn that Douglas was opposing Proposition 100.

"How can you be working to defeat this when it means so much to our district and to our students?" Mussi asked.

Douglas said she is a staunch supporter of high quality education but opposes Proposition 100 because it would damage efforts to rebuild Arizona's economy.

Douglas added that her support for axthetax.com is not within the purview of the governing board and that she and the parents raising the issue simply have a difference in philosophy.

Proposition 100 is a three-year tax expected to generate about $3 billion, with a sizeable portion earmarked for education. The Peoria district is expecting state funding cuts of about $21 million for next school year, with an additional $15 million should voters reject the tax.

Parent Ken Feldman requested that Douglas resign and threatened that if she didn't, he would pursue a recall. He said Douglas is showing a lack of priorities and violating the oath of office she made when elected to the governing board.

The parents council has not considered pursuing a recall and will wait for Douglas to further respond to questions regarding her position on Proposition 100, Mussi said.

"There is no doubt that we have a difference in opinions on issues, but as a governing board member, it is her responsibility to protect the students of PUSD and provide the highest education possible," Mussi said.

Board President Kathy Knecht and board member Joe McCord requested that the board discuss and consider formal public support for Proposition 100.

"Passage of Proposition 100 is critical to preserve programs and to do the best by our students and teachers of our district," Knecht said. "I would hope that everyone related to our school district understand the importance of passing it."