Employers want reform

When the court-mandated curtain went up on Idaho businesses that put their money where their future is, there was no call for shame or explanations.

Maybe a standing ovation.

On Wednesday, Education Voters of Idaho disclosed the list of donors who support education reform in Idaho generally and Propositions 1, 2 and 3 on the ballot specifically. The big brouhaha behind disclosure involves campaign finances and nonprofit organizations - a meaty topic for another day.

Today we recognize that with the future of public education in Idaho at stake, some of Idaho's most prominent businesses were investing in the education reform measures enacted by the 2011 Legislature. To the leaders of these businesses, the need to change the way our schools prepare students for the increasingly competitive and demanding work world is among the highest priorities. That's not just because the companies are benevolent; it's in their best interests to have a well-educated, well-trained workforce.

Many are predicting that Propositions 1, 2 and 3 will fail on Tuesday, meaning Idaho public schools would revert to previous form and function. We encourage citizens to consider that reform is not a political stick designed for flogging educators but rather an urgent call for improvement from those who hold the keys to tomorrow's jobs.