When high school student Maeva Ordaz (Compass, April 18) deftly described the "shell game" being played by legislators with education funding, and parents realized that one-time grants are more like "bonuses" than salary, I understand Republican reluctance to adequately fund education. The populace is already too smart! Although legislators may be content with "temp" jobs, teachers are career-oriented and don't want to wonder if this year will be their last. The base student allocation provides some long-term stability.
So why do Republicans dislike the BSA? Is this another case of opposition without an alternative? No. Their "holy grail" is vouchers. Thanks to a smart public, they had to hide their proposed constitutional amendment away until next term, but rest assured it will be resurrected if they return victorious after next November.
I hope this education session of the Legislature was as educational for you as it was for me.
— Jon R. Sharpe
Anchorage