Education legislation

To Arkansas’ legislators: Many of us who have dedicated our lives to teaching are awaiting the 2017 legislative session with bated breath and some trepidation. There are bills and rumors of bills that will do much damage to the public schools of Arkansas. It seems that there is a desire to dismantle due process, to allow waivers of all kinds, and to remove incentives for future teachers pursuing this noble and rewarding career.

A word of advice: If you value the children of this state and their education, do not listen to the voices that tell you that privatization, budget-slashing, suspending the Fair Dismissal Act, and tinkering with retirement plans are beneficial for public schools. They most definitely are not.

Here is a novel idea: Ask teachers and students what is needed to improve their schools. Nobody ever asks the young people what they need, just as nobody ever asks school staff what would best serve the children. I’m not talking about a handful of educators on committees, or asking administrators. I am proposing that you survey, interview, and visit those for whom you presume to create laws. Only then will you understand what issues we face and how to best serve—which is what you were elected to do—the people of Arkansas.

Please know that we are watching, listening, reading, and discussing your actions, and we will be in touch.

SHELLEY SMITH

Fox