Schools should make do with less

Published 12:33 pm Friday, February 5, 2010

I believe we must provide a well-founded and broad-based education system for the children of our country.

That being said, I am voting no on the present proposed North Kitsap School District No. 400 levy.

Why? Because there are a great number of people in this district who are unemployed.

The prospect of their employment, at any time, is dismal. These persons are having to get by on very little.

The school district, in the recent past, has expended large sums on elaborate buildings, athletic facilities and other after-school functions. Now the district must reduce spending and survive on a lower income.

Teaching and instruction are the prime responsibility of the school system and it needs to shun and avoid all the frills.

Consider the past. The Great Depression started when I was in second grade.

The school system survived and was successful, to culminate in the class of 1941, which went off to war and become “The Greatest Generation.”

During those years the school grounds were dirt. In high school the football and baseball fields were dirt. We played our games in daylight after school on Saturday. Our uniforms and equipment were simple and economical. And we got along fine.

Current conditions are not being called a depression but it sure seems like one to those without work or income. The school district and voters should observe that fact. The experience, by the students, of the necessary belt-tightening and the need to economize would be beneficial.

Public schools are for education. Entertainment and amusement are not their function or purpose.

Reform the levy proposal. Provide for just and proper teacher wages and operation and maintenance costs.

Skip the frills.

Earle Willey

Indianola