Shame on those who hold our kids

Shame on those who hold our kids hostage

April 27, 2011

Thanks to Doug Kim Brown and Linda Alt for speaking out about education and what it means to our kids.

This is not a partisan issue. This is a national issue.

Whether we like it or not, the U.S. is competing in world markets. Idaho is competing within the U.S.

It may not seem like it in our small community, but we are part of a much bigger whole.

Shame on those who would hold our kids hostage for a few bucks a month.

Without good educations, our kids are condemned to a life of struggle and survival. Is that what we parents want for our kids?

I don’t think so.

There was a time in this country when one could simply work hard and make a decent living.

There are exceptions today, of course, but statistics show that those with better and higher educations get the higher paying jobs, or, during downturns, get the jobs that are available.

Getting into college today is harder than it has ever been for those who have limited funds. The situation is compounded when they can’t meet entry level standards due to irresponsible action of the very adults who are supposed to be preparing them for mature and thoughtful citizenship.

There was also a time when a high school diploma was used as a screening device for employment. Today the bar has been raised, and a bachelor's degree is the new screening for employment.

It is not just our kids' future.

It is our future as a community.

As Doug mentioned, education is one of the major factors in attracting business and economic growth to create a thriving community.

We are not thriving today.

Help to make Boundary County a thriving community once more. Please exercise your right, your privilege, and your obligation and vote on the M & O levy May 17th.