THE PUBLIC MIND: DON'T OUR CHILDREN DESERVE THE VERY BEST?

To the Editor:

The 86th General Assembly has convened in Jefferson City facing challenges of historic dimensions. Every Missourian needs to take the time to follow the debates in the Legislature and to let their views be known to their respective representatives and senators. As a professional educator I would like to express some ideas concerning the most pressing issue facing Missourians today, funding for public education.

According to a national survey Missouri ranks 48th in the proportion of money it spends on education its children. The salaries of the men and women who will shape this state's future rank 38th among the 50 states. Whereas increased government spending is not the answer to all problems, as the old saying goes "You get what you pay for." Most educators have a level of schooling equal to that of many doctors and lawyers yet they make one-third of the salary of other professionals. Is not the education of our children worth an equal investment?

The solutions offered for the funding problem are complex. The best alternative put forth thus far is a proposal to set aside a certain portion of the state budget for the education of our young people. If one looks at the Missouri Constitution they will find that the founders of our state government intended that the educational needs of our children be given top priority in the budget process. This proposal would meet this Constitutional mandate.

In this age of shrinking resources it is time for the General Assembly and the people of Missouri to evaluate the needs of this state. As we embark on this process let us remember that the future of our society rests upon those who will follow us. Don't they deserve the very best?

Ken Markin

Cape Girardeau