KEEP CONTROL OF KID SALES AT LOCAL LEVEL

You see them everywhere. Kids selling stuff -- candy bars, calendars, popcorn, wrapping paper, pizza, fruitcakes -- for their school. They sell to benefit both public and private schools, although the sales seem even more prevalent in the private sector. And these sales are often above and beyond student retailing for Scouts, sports and other organizations.

In schools, the wish lists are often longer than what budgets can fulfill. Students are called upon more and more by parent-teacher organizations and other clubs to help raise funds to buy things that don't fit into school budgets.

But that's not all bad. These sales projects can teach students a valuable lesson about working toward a goal and competition. Some parents see these exercises as a way to build character. Fund raising may also teach the lesson that things in life aren't free. Work is required to reach a goal. Students can also feel good about helping their school when enough money is raised to buy a specific item like an air conditioner or computer.

Some parents feel that the state should take a hand in discouraging all these student sales -- especially in the public school sector. They complain that parents end up buying most of the merchandise, whether they want to or not, as a way to avoid the sale process.

But this is an issue that should be handled locally -- at each individual school. And student sales should receive some measure of oversight by the school administration.

First off, the sales shouldn't be mandatory. Incentives, such as bicycles or other premiums, are great ways to spur participation, but students shouldn't be forced to sell.

Secondly, school officials should make sure the sales programs themselves are reputable. Sometimes, very little of the money goes to the students but is pocketed by some distribution company.

Some private schools across the state have avoided student sales all together. They have instead opted for a one-time family assessment fee. That's certainly another option but one that should be made locally.

Some complain that student fund raising cuts into family time. Others look at it as an opportunity for parents and children to build camaraderie as they work together toward a common goal.

Today, student sales is just a part of growing up. Hopefully, area schools and parents help to ensure the experience is a positive one that builds character, not complaint.