To the editor:

Ideology versus results. The chasm between good intentions and effective government is staggering. This disconnect resonates in Gov. Sam Brownback’s most recent pre-holiday interview. His primary goal for the next legislative session is to build a new school finance formula. Given the track record of poor results produced from his legislative agendas in the past, it is difficult to image how much damage this administration could bring upon our public education system.

Tax cuts, privatizing Medicaid and promises made to public service employees have all fallen well short of the mark. Instead of addressing these initiatives head on after they have proved ineffective, the administration moves on to other topics. Gov. Brownback is unwilling to conduct any transparent review of the sweeping changes that are unprecedented for one administration.

My hope is the Legislature will stop the maddening pace of change until the administration is held accountable for its past agendas. Otherwise, it is clear that our governor will put forward ideas that will have significant adverse consequences to the future of our schools.