Propositions offer our students opportunities

Many teachers in our local district as are opposed to receiving performance pay, funding for netbook computers and funding for dual enrollment classes. This funding is in Propositions 2 and 3 that will appear on the Nov. 6 ballot. Opponents believe that it is the responsibility of the state to fund education at a higher level.

I am certainly supportive of more funding for education, but I am deeply concerned that if this money is given back to the general fund it will be at the mercy of the Legislature. Essentially, opponents of these two propositions appear to believe that those funds will then be reallocated to education in a manner that is more in keeping with their own priorities. While I have heard statements from legislators claiming that would be the case, I am not convinced. Having witnessed the battle over the Students Come First legislation, I have no faith in putting $38 million (FY13) designated for education back into the general fund to be fought over with other priorities such as health care, prisons, roads etc.

During public testimony over these issues, it did not appear that most legislators were willing to change their minds or their vote. Realistically, nothing has changed from that time, except that our Legislature may be even more entrenched. Our charter school cannot afford this kind of wishful thinking. With the weak economy there is less revenue for all and budget battles will be extremely difficult for years to come. Our teachers worked extremely hard for the merit bonuses they are slated to receive (Prop. 2) and they deserve to have them, along with the chance to earn more in the future.

Regarding netbook computers for all high school students, as funded by Prop 3, anyone with concerns and questions is welcome to come by our school and see what a 1-1 computer school actually looks like. We have used computers this way for four years. We are not perfect but we have found solutions for many of the issues that are alluded to in the media. We have an amazing group of teachers who use and incorporate technology to enhance learning. A computer is simply a tool to use in a classroom like any other, and it is more cost effective and versatile than textbooks.

Proposition 3 also provides funding for college level dual enrollment. Most of our seniors are enrolled in these classes. This is an incredible opportunity for students and families. Our school has helped them out with tuition with the expectation that the dual enrollment dollars in Proposition 3 would pay the school back. I certainly hope that is the case and voters will bear these students in mind when they go to the polls.

I urge my fellow educators and other citizens to think carefully about what might happen if these propositions are defeated and the funding goes back into the general fund and consider voting for Propositions 2 and 3.

ALAN MILLAR

Sandpoint

Principal

Forrest Bird Charter School