Suppiger understands children's importance, needs

Gary Suppiger is running for re-election to the LPOSD board of trustees. At a public forum on Wednesday, Oct 13, his opponent, Jalon Peters, was asked what he would do to cut spending at our schools.

Jalon Peters explained how he would end the free meals program. Gary Suppiger reminded the audience that about 60% of the students at our schools currently receive breakfast, lunch, and many receive after school snacks and dinner as well. He explained that poverty in Bonner County is a huge issue with no easy answers.

Gary Suppiger went on to explain that the USDA provides funding for free meals for those who are at or below the poverty level. If LPOSD refused the money, the funds would be sent to neighboring districts to provide food for their students. More importantly, over half of the students in our school district would come to school hungry, sit there all day hungry and would leave school hungry.

Is that where we are at now? Just let them sit there hungry? Children? 5 year olds? Let them sit there hungry?

Gary Suppiger understands that children are precious and would never condone childhood hunger in our schools.

You can vote for Gary Suppiger on November 2nd if you normally vote at the Sagle Fire Station, Cocolalla Bible Camp or the LDS Westmond Ward. Early Voting is open from OCT. 18-29 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the County Building at U.S. 2 and Division.

SYLVIA HUMES

Sandpoint