To the editor:

As a retired teacher, it gives me pleasure to read in the paper about the accomplishments of students in Brown County Schools.

The importance of a school system that addresses the education needs of the community with preschool through adult education is one to be valued and supported by its residents. The dollars spent on a good education system have greater value than money that may later be needed for incarceration and remedial education.

The State of Indiana, through a funding system that favors large urban and suburban schools, has failed to reward the quality of education available in smaller, countywide school districts.

Legislators have recognized the accomplishments of Brown County Schools, but have not favored these with additional dollars. They have left this responsibility to the local community.

I encourage you to vote “YES” on or before the May primary so that Brown County Schools can:

• Provide for competitive teacher salaries and continue quality programming;
• Recruit and retain quality teachers;
• Maintain current class sizes; and
• Continue to support the Brown County Career Resource Center.

Quality schools are basic to economic development and stable property values. The contribution of good schools to a strong community is priceless.

Donna Ormiston, Brown County

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