Protecting Taxpayers' Investment in Public Education

By Kathi Smith

To fulfill public education's mission, we must ensure that students' access to information and development of understanding and judgment is the primary focus.

In my 12 years on the board, I have worked to produce employable graduates. We should maximize the potential of every student, so that they become adults who are productive, income-earning members of the economy.

I'm serious about respecting local and state tax dollars. We have to work within our budget to teach useful information, developing thoughtful individuals who will create the economy that will support our retirees as well as our next generation.

We should understand that our teachers are the ones who create new learning methods, adapt to changing technology, and teach our children to think. We should honor the homes of our families who send their children to be educated. We should expect great things from our children, who, if they are given the opportunity to learn every day, will not let us down. They will start new businesses, create new endeavors, and do the work that keeps our valley beautiful.