To the editor:

All citizens should applaud our elected Lawrence and Douglas County officials for their concern and initiative in meeting with the USD 497 school board to deal with our school funding crisis (as reported in the May 29 Journal-World). Clearly, if we value education, alternative funding must be found; and, hopefully without raising taxes. But, what to do? Here’s one idea.

According to county officials, about $35,000 will be spent this year mowing the sides of county roads. That could pay for a health care worker in a school, for example. This year Kansas can’t afford to both cut roadsides and educate its children and that is nothing to be ashamed about. Nor is it a reflection on the mowing crews, by any means. Statewide, up to $5 million could be saved by eliminating roadside mowing. Where else can we gain a similar budget booster? (Farmers can get a free permit to cut roadsides for hay if the wish.)

If we don’t mow the grass it will wither in an August drought or an October frost. If we don’t educate young minds they, too, will wither, with far more dire consequences. Urge commissioners to park the mowers this season and apply the funds to WRAP or other school support activities!

Graham Kreicker,
Lawrence