Yes to education, no to district levy

I support education. However, the current system is a money pit supporting teachers more than students.

Teachers resist reform such as “pay for performance” that is standard elsewhere. LPOSD student enrollment has decreased 14 percent from 2006 to 2012 but levy amounts continue to increase. The state education committee cleared a 2013-2014 education budget that is 2 percent higher than the current year and includes a 5.8-percent increase in teacher compensation. Thus, state funding is not decreasing.

Public education already accounts for 47 percent of the state’s spending and that does not include levies. The average Idaho teacher salary is $47,416 for 180 workdays or $32.93 per hour. Compare that to the average personal income in Bonner County of $32,000 for 260 work days or $15.39 per hour. Insurance, retirement, and other school employee benefits also far exceed what most private employees get.

TOBY McNEAL

Sandpoint