Put teacher education expense in context

A front-page article in the Aug. 3 Daily Herald about local school district expenditures to subsidize advanced education of teachers missed the mark, in my opinion.

Like most people, I don't want to see waste or inefficiency in any governmental entity, including my local school districts. The focus regarding expenditures, however, should be on affordability and value.

If the cost is affordable and the program produces commensurate value, then it probably makes sense. Unfortunately, while Jake Griffin's article throws around a lot of numbers, it fails to provide the context to make a judgment as to the affordability of or the value derived from these programs.

There is a tendency these days to demonize teachers. The tone of the article seems to play into that sentiment.

We would do well to keep in mind that schools are the foundation of our society. Every dollar well spent on the quality of our schools and teachers is returned many times over when we turn out educated, responsible young adults who become the drivers, innovators and leaders of our economy.

The two biggest line items on my property tax bill are my local school districts, but I believe it is money well spent. Instead of only looking for ways to cut school costs, perhaps we should look more for ways to make our schools better.

Investing in hiring and retaining top notch teachers is a good start.

Bob Dohn

Schaumburg