SCHOOLS: Cost up; quality isn't

In Noelle Branen’s response to my March 14 letter she states that no children are forced to raise money for the schools. I must say that she is mostly correct. However, when the entire school is using class time to pursue the fundraising event how voluntary is that? Sure my child does not “have to” participate in collecting money nor do the run, but, while all the other kids are running she is going to do what? I never got an answer to that question so she simply did not go that day.

Since Ms. Branen thinks my argument is ridiculous that children are being exploited let me further explain and offer a perspective. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, in 1962 it cost $2,808 on average to educate a child in public schools in inflation-adjusted dollars. In 2008, that figure was $10,441, or nearly a fourfold increase in constant, inflation-adjusted dollars. (Note: District 271 spends an average of $8,169 per student.) Is anyone going to argue that our children are better educated these days?

Those who homeschool or use private schooling do so because their children get a better education on average than what the government offers. Throwing ever more money at the government schools has not improved the education. If you want to raise even more money for government schools using your children go ahead. I’m sure the government will be free to waste even more money such as trillions on useless wars. While the U.S. is responsible for 50 percent of the entire world’s military spending we now use children to raise funds for the schools despite higher taxes. Now that’s ridiculous!

Ms. Branen, if you want me to attend your next PTA meeting, I will, if you invite me. [email protected]. Finally, I do not want something for nothing. My child will be starting private school in May.

TRACY HAGUE

Coeur d’Alene