Lawrence County has had many milestones to celebrate during the last six months when it comes to schools.

Wednesday, May 17, 2000

Lawrence County has had many milestones to celebrate during the last six months when it comes to schools. At least three districts have broken ground for new facilities financed through the School Building Assistance Program, and a fourth is trying to get a levy passed to begin a construction project of its own.

And while all those construction projects are good news – the fundamental problem that has crippled many southeast Ohio schools still looms.

The state has still not agreed on the proper way to fund its schools.

All the buildings in the world won’t put books on shelves or make sure that there is a ready pool of inspiring teachers ready to bring classes to life. And, of course, a new building doesn’t provide advanced English or math classes,either.

If Lawrence County and southern Ohio parents want better lives for their children, they have to do more than shake their heads at decisions in Columbus that could directly impact that result.

That includes allowing others to influence school funding reform.

Southern Ohio parents have a responsibility, not just to their own children, but to future generations to speak their mind while they have a chance. Now is the time to let Columbus know that this time a gesture won’t substitute for a solution.