Quality teachers, smaller classes the key

To Todd Dorman: On May 6, you stated that the Republicans would “yank free or affordable preschool out from under thousands of workers.” I believe thousands of workers would rather have a good-paying job.

Our state needs jobs first and foremost. Then, we will increase our tax base (people who are actually making money) and have more money to put into our education system. And, at that time, if we so choose to continue with our “voluntary” preschool program, we may want to consider continuing that first-class educational experience into the elementary level.

Rather than cutting teachers, such as in my district of Allamakee, our schools need to focus on quality teachers and smaller class sizes. It doesn't make much sense to get children ready for school with preschool and then “yank” a teacher out of the elementary classroom. It doesn't make much sense to “improve Iowa's education system with an eye on the future needs for skilled workers” when there are no jobs.

Gov. Chet Culver may be pleased with offering preschool grants to parts of the state. But, demanding that schools make 10 percent budget cuts midyear is not so pleasing. Talk about a backdoor maneuver!

Tara Reisinger

Waterville