I would like to thank John McCarron for his commentary on Gov. Edgar’s education plan (Op-Ed, April 7). Apparently many business and civic leaders just can’t back the redistribution of funds to needy school districts. Did I say “leaders”? Perhaps we will hear from enough voters to ensure a fair hearing for this proposal. If you do want to help the children of our state, please let your voice be heard.
I support Edgar’s plan to ensure that all the children of Illinois have a chance at a quality education because I have been there. My six children were in Indiana schools when Indiana decided to change school funding so poorer school districts could enjoy some of the privileges of the wealthier school districts, i.e., art, music, gym teachers, nurses and more. I was a normal parent who wanted the best for my children so it took some time to adjust to a more Spartan regime. As a PTA member, I attempted to teach art and music in our grammar school but many benefits were lost forever.
If we expect folks to pull themselves up by their bootstraps, let’s give them the tools to accomplish this feat while they are in the public school system.
