That's not nearly enough money to solve the problem, but at least it's a start. Yet, on two occasions this year, lawmakers voted for tax breaks for private school families instead of modern schools for all children. We would think it was appalling if we knew a child lived in these conditions at home, but we think nothing of having them spend six hours a day in such a setting. Because our school was built to accommodate 950 students, and there are now 1,400, the wear and tear on our facility is being accelerated. It's like inviting another family to move into your house without adding any bathrooms or bedrooms.
Congressional inaction plagues other issues of importance to children and public education, too.
Still, I'm pleased that NEA members continue to write and E-mail our elected leaders, because we know that our active involvement in politics is vital to the future of children and public education in America. All of us in NEA need to be vigilant in its defense. As we approach the fall election, let's remember who supported children and public education, and who did not. As responsible citizens, we owe it to our students to support candidates who support their futures. Let's elect people who share our horror at the hole in the floor at East Park Elementary, and who know that every child deserves to learn in a modern public school, with small class sizes and access to technology.