Commentary on "Proud of Education?"

AGeorge published “Proud of Education?” on November 23, 2011, as an original editorial about Texas state and local government. AGeorge questions the priorities of those “in charge” of administering funds to the public education system in Texas. The author expresses frustration caused by the $7 billion drop in public education spending, that ultimately leads to “reducing the pay for teachers, laying off teachers and increasing class sizes” throughout the state of Texas.

The article appeals to a vast majority of Texans, whose children, siblings, nieces, and ect… attend the Texas public school system. AGeorge wonders, “what kind of contribution can [the current youth] make without a sturdy platform of education.”  The author informs the reader that the Austin Board of Education is planning on cutting “1,153 positions district wide which [includes] 650 teachers.” Through this information AGeorge establishes the articles argument, by leading the reader to understand the impact of budget cuts in education. 

The author begins the article by metioning that in 2010 Texas produced “more jobs than any other state in the country.” The article then goes on to quote the opening statement on “The Office of the Governor Rick Perry” website. AGeorge finds the following quote ironic: “the Lone Star State is the best place in the nation to live, work and raise a family.” A connection I believe the author of this article failed to address is the correlation between the growing number of jobs and the diminished funds for education crisis. School districts are experiencing an increase in students, due to the appeal of a large workforce, which is attracting individuals to Texas. An increase of enrollment to public schools, and a decrease of funs for public education is a disastrous combination.

I completely agree with the author of this article. Education is extremely important, and government officials need to find an appropriate solution to ensure that every child in the sate of Texas is receiving the best quality of education possible. As a product of the public school system, I have to mention the lack of devotion on behalf of some teachers. It is my belief that lowering the current pay of educators in this state will only increase this problem.