SCHOOLS: Memo to teachers union

We demand a NEW contract for the students and taxpayers, too. At the open negotiations a few years ago, then superintendent Hazel Bauman told the union that they needed to address the high use of health insurance that was driving rates up every year. (We have one of the most unhealthy districts in the state.) Many districts cover only the employee; Coeur d’Alene covers most of the employee’s entire family. Support staff (non-teaching) is 30 percent in many rural schools; Coeur d’Alene is over 50 percent. There are many teachers desiring to work here. Why is the union complaining?

We the public are under HEAVY school levies yearly, taxing our retirement investment, our homes, while district employees enjoy tax-free retirement savings and this generous, antiquated health policy. The union chose to rob the school bus and new book funds rather than deal with this and other important issues.

Recently, a Health Savings Account Policy was suggested by the board since it fostered more healthy living, could yield better quality instruction through better attendance, and allow better pay/quality substitutes — and cost less. Yes, it does require more responsible use of insurance, but it offers the reward of a savings policy to cover deductibles and many currently uncovered expenses.

Drop tenure, pay teachers based on performance and insist on individual responsibility for one’s own health. The result would be a budget surplus, rewards for top performing teachers, and better quality education for our children.

JOHN RUBERT

Hayden