LUNA: Model is real-world

The recent KTVB debate between present Idaho Superintendent of Schools Tom Luna and his opponent Stan Olson revealed clear differences in the candidates. Olson appeared a classic elitist academic, while Tom Luna represented the real world businessman in his approach to education. Olson has spent his entire career in academia, whereas Luna was a successful business owner before becoming involved in education at the local, state, and national level.

Olson called for developing a "plan" by calling together 115 school districts to determine what defines a "thorough system of education." Luna rightfully labeled this "analysis to paralysis." There is already a known and practiced plan that is delivering results. Idaho has become a leader in academic achievement, which speaks well for Luna's model of education.

Luna's ongoing plan is to continue setting high academic standards and to encourage schools to reach these goals by fostering innovation, giving technical help to districts, and supporting school choice. So far the Luna approach is working. Voters should not turn our schools back to academic elites, who would create big bureaucracies and lose touch with the goal of serving students.

Please vote for Tom Luna on Nov. 2. The debate is found at www.lunaforidaho.com.

KATHRYN M. JUNGJOHANN

Coeur d'Alene