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LEVY: District has cut wisely

| February 18, 2011 9:00 PM

I can understand the general displeasure the public has for the inefficiency and irresponsible nature of our current government. I too am tired of, and disappointed in, our current (and former) elected officials. I know the best way to express that disappointment is by denying them the funds they request for whatever reason. However, the school levy we will be voting on next month does not deserve your protest vote. It is a necessity to our children and the future we all owe to them.

I understand that there are people who believe our school district should just learn how to make do with less. I have researched the cuts our district has made and have come to the conclusion that they have been doing just that. They have made around $9 million in cuts. From what I have seen they have trimmed just about everything they could without having a negative impact on our children. I have been impressed by the cost cutting measures the board has taken. I believe them when they say they require a little bit more from the citizens to ensure the current level of education our children are receiving.

I have heard the argument that more money does not improve education. There was a time when that was true. The world has changed and the resources required to provide our kids with a proper education are expensive. I am all for pinching pennies, demanding responsible spending with verifiable results. Our school district has shown me both.

HOOT GAYLOR

Coeur d'Alene