Oosterhoff brings unique perspective to post

RE: OOSTERHOFF UNQUALIFIED FOR EDUCATION POST: READER, LETTERS TO THE EDITOR, JULY 17

I am not a Conservative, but Doug Ford made a good choice appointing Niagara West MPP Sam Oosterhoff as Ontario’s parliamentary assistant to the minister of education.

Referencing home schooling, there can be many benefits a home-schooled individual can bring to the table such as a broader education tailored to child’s interest, with time to investigate subjects more deeply, independent opinions not influenced by which name brand of trainers are being worn, socialization of meeting rich, poor, young and old, better health through time spent outdoors. Home schooling can provide encouragement of imaginative, creative thinking and obviously the position this young man finds himself in only lends itself to reflecting these qualities.

There are many ways to be knowledgeable in life that don’t always involve formal education. One important way Oosterhoff has broadened his scope is through musical education. He is a singer/pianist with Grade 10 from the Royal Conservatory of Music. Music accesses a part of the brain that can only be reached through music education.

Bill Clinton said, “I don’t think I would have become president if it were not for my school music program.” Schools have all but obliterated music education. What a wonderful thing that Sam’s parents had foresight to include this adjunct to Sam’s education to the future benefit of our education system. Sam will bring a young and nuanced perspective to his role as an adviser. Scholastic achievement alone does not always a balanced individual bring. Janet Cade

St Catharines