SCHOOLS: Two good candidates

Tom Hamilton and Terri Seymour are the only Coeur d'Alene School Board candidates I would trust with my vote. They have promised to not accept campaign money from the teachers' union. The CEA offered financial support to those candidates receiving their "union recommendation." The organization also offered "access to a network of members willing to volunteer time and expertise to assist with campaign activities."

Tom and Terri have pledged to stay independent from teachers' union control. However, they will welcome input from our many talented and hard working teachers, taxpayers and parents. They will encourage teachers to bring their concerns and ideas to the board. They will listen carefully to union requests but will represent the larger Coeur d'Alene community and taxpayers.

Tom and Terri each have children in the Coeur d'Alene schools and want the best education possible for all students. They will set aside ideology, support proven and successful educational curriculum, and make decisions based on good judgment. They will not compromise their credibility by accepting the union offers, with who knows what strings attached.

On May 17 please vote for Terri Seymour in Zone 3 and Tom Hamilton in Zone 2. Voting will be at our normal county polling places. For more information on where to vote contact the Kootenai County Elections Office at 446-1030 or go to www.kcgov.us/elections/.

GENE MANN

Coeur d'Alene