As a former plant manager for a large manufacturing plant, I was once asked by the S.C. Economic Development Board what the number one thing the state could do to bring in additional jobs in the manufacturing sector. My answer then was the same that it would be now — improve the quality of education. Not only do modern manufacturing jobs require higher levels of education, it is very difficult for companies to recruit executives and experienced managers to a state where employees do not want their children enrolled in the public education system.
In the latest news, I understand that our legislators have now proposed that teachers and school administrators take pay cuts to make up the school budget shortfall. The article that I read did not indicate that our elected officials would also take pay cuts. The proposed cuts also include abolishing testing of our students for educational proficiency unless the tests are mandated by the federal government. Does the phrase “home of minimally adequate education” sound familiar?
I realize that the state is facing a massive budget shortfall and that spending is being cut at many levels and in many state services. We must, however, stop the shortsighted practice of reducing spending for education. Our state must improve the education of our children if we are ever to be considered a prime location for new economic growth.
This latest round of proposals indicates what our elected officials truly believe. Teachers are second class citizens and education is not a top priority for our state.
Mark R. Smith
Florence
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