KTEC: What's down the road

I would like to answer some of the claims made by Spirit Lake resident Peter Ward in a My Turn column last Friday.

He said the programs proposed for KTEC already exist at North Idaho College, and therefore the facility is not needed. While NIC does have similar programs but on a limited basis, its programs are not equipped to accept the number of students that would be taught at KTEC, nor is the community college geared to teach 16- and 17-year-olds. Some students who complete a program at KTEC may want to transition into a program at NIC, and will have the skills to do so, perhaps even as a second-year student. But KTEC students will have opportunities for certifications and apprenticeships that will lead to immediate placement in the workforce, if they choose.

Mr. Ward asks if we should be funding professional education to children unsure of the future. Indeed, the very foundation of public education is to expose young people to a variety of career choices and equip them with the knowledge and skills to pursue their interests so that every student graduates and becomes a contributing member of society.

Mr. Ward claims this will be the "first inch... with miles more to come." The KTEC levy will run two years and then expire. We cannot predict the future but can say that at this time there are no plans for an immediate levy after the building is built. As to operations, state money follows students and the state provides enhanced funding for professional technical programs because those programs require specialized equipment and smaller class sizes. The state funding, plus the pledges of equipment already received, should meet the operational costs.

As one of those on the KTEC exploratory and advisory committee, I have seen firsthand the commitment of business and industry to this project. That dedication to this project was certainly evident when several businesses pooled their funds to purchase 10 acres for the site, matching a 10-acre donation by the Meyer family. Another example of their commitment is their contributions toward the campaign to make voters aware and informed about KTEC.

The program areas that will be offered at KTEC will lead to well-paying jobs right here in our local communities. A vote yes on Aug. 24 will be a vote for future mechanics, carpenters, welders and health care workers who will serve the present and future residents of Kootenai County.

CRAIG WILCOX

Coeur d'Alene