LETTER: Please vote responsibly

Editor,

Recently for a graduate level course in education, I was asked to research several local and national political candidates, based on their level of support for public education. In my research on the candidates who are running for governor in the state of Utah, I was surprised to find that Mr. Huntsman only provided a few sketchy paragraphs on his web page regarding his plans for education, one of which is to take funding away from public education in order to credit charter schools. Scott Matheson, on the other hand, provided a very detailed plan for dealing with the huge growth in student population that is projected over the next ten years, as well as ways to promote parent involvement, fund early intervention programs, increase communication between schools, government and community, and to recruit and reward quality teachers. I am not acquainted with Mr. Matheson, nor am I affiliated with any political party. This assignment however, opened my eyes as to what it means to really research the candidates and make an informed vote! I feel that too many people in this state vote based on the traditions of their fathers and grandfathers without looking at the issues and researching the candidates to see what they stand for! I am grateful that I was given this particular assignment, which showed me that Scott Matheson is the better candidate for those who value education in our state. During this election, concerned teachers and parents have the opportunity to elect a governor who will make a difference in public education! And so I plead with you: Please make an informed vote in November! Here are some web sites to help you get started. www.mathesonforgovernor.com,www.votehuntsman.com, www.johnkerry.com, www.votenader.org,www.georgewbush.com

Tammy Janes