Comments on Federal Stimulus

A comment was made at Monday's press conference that only a fool doesn't change his mind. I'm hoping the governor has changed his and will accept the stimulus funding. While you are pondering  your position, here are a few comments made by District Three Teacher of the year Bryan Coburn:

"It has been widely reported that if Gov. Sanford cannot use the federal stimulus money to pay down the state's debt, he will not accept the funds. These millions of dollars intended to help our schools, and let me repeat, help our schools, will be sent to other states if the Governor makes good on his promise.

The citizens of South Carolina held varied views concerning the stimulus package. Some were against it, some supported it, and others felt it needed to be further vetted.  However, we stand united in our belief that to reject the stimulus money would be irresponsible.  If our state, our economy, and our children’s education are the basis for your decision Gov. Sanford, then not accepting the stimulus money would not be a consistent position.   

For example, instead of being able to purchase needed instructional materials; continuing educational programs that are working for our students; using new dollars to avoid teacher furloughs and lay- offs; South Carolina's share of the federal funds will be sent to other states where they will be able to hire teachers, work more effectively with their students, and maintain lower class sizes.  That is not putting our children and our state first.  I am not here to make a political statement; I am here to make a common sense statement.

It is the goal of every educator to provide the best possible education for the students and communities that we serve.  We understand that there may be political and philosophical differences as it relates to the stimulus funds; however the reality is that the stimulus package was passed.   There are certainties that we face on a day-to-day basis, as we deal with the most significant funding decreases on record which outweigh any political or philosophical ideology.    It is illogical to ask the citizens of South Carolina to shoulder the burden of paying the taxes for our neighboring state of North Carolina so they may spend our tax monies for their needs and ignoring the needs here in York County and the great state of South Carolina.

South Carolinians are proud of the great strides we are making in our educational systems. Our students continue making educational gains. Our state's accountability system is one of the most rigorous in the country. As a matter of fact, the chairman of the Federal Reserve is a product of our fine education systems!  We have many miles to go before we can proudly say that every student in the state will have the education to reach the level of Mr. Bernake.  However, if Governor Sanford has his way, the great strides that have been made will be severely handicapped. 

If you agree with our concerns, we urge you to contact Governor Mark Sanford today. It is essential that you make the call, encouraging him make a prudent decision that is in the best interest of the citizens and state of South Carolina.  His number is 803-734-2100.

Thank you all for your support for public education in South Carolina."
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