To the editor:

Finally, someone gets it!

First, it should be clear that school board member Craig Grant and I are friends. I supported his campaign and congratulated him on his election.

Does this disqualify me from speaking out on the actions of our school board? If you believe so, stop here.

I am more convinced today that my support and vote were correct. The last election saw three citizens elected to the board; one member was re-elected, two are “freshmen.”

Before the last election, a poll showed that the citizens of our school district were less than satisfied with our school board. In general, I was satisfied.

And then, I witnessed a number of our finest teachers moving to other districts. These educators didn’t leave teaching; they left Lawrence. They left because they have families that they must support. They left for higher pay.

I’ve met, talked with and had many very satisfying encounters with our local educators at all levels. They are all well-qualified, dedicated professionals.

If we continue to turn our heads and “get along in public,” we will jeopardize not just our children’s education; we will jeopardize our quality of life. The proper funding of public education must include the proper funding of educators’ salaries.

Lawrence, it is time to stand up to those who don’t get it.

Rex Gardner,

Lawrence