Regarding the op-ed “We’ve always known how to create good public schools” (Oct. 17, TribLIVE): Yes, let’s talk about school choice. But first consider some old quotes:
“Freedom requires that government keep the channels of competition and opportunity open, prevent monopolies, economic abuse and domination.” — President Herbert Hoover
“All government employees should realize that the process of collective bargaining, as usually understood, cannot be transplanted into the public service … .” — President Franklin D. Roosevelt
The idea of monopolizing education funding into an abusive unionized monopoly will not end well.
Public funding was intended to educate the masses regardless of economic ability. Has it succeeded? It has for most. However, real estate taxes have destroyed the retirements of millions, trapped millions of students in poorly performing schools and created the never-ending battle over this most inequitable burdensome form of taxation.
The best public school districts have one thing in common. The parents are very involved in those school districts. In the districts where the parents aren’t involved, children in the families that do care are trapped by the lack of mobility in funding.
How do we build a successful education system for all? We allow the education funding to follow the child. The family knows the best form of education for their own children. Competition will draw the proceeds to the best, most efficient systems.
“In any moment of decision, the best thing you can do is the right thing. The worst thing you can do is nothing.” — President Theodore Roosevelt
Gregory McQuaide
Hampton