Bob Terry’s treatise on education and the accompanied aspersions in your March 16 opinion column gave me reason to respond.

During my 16 years of service on the Northshore school board, we realigned and cut more than $20 million from our budget. Part of this was due to bringing our district up to the new standards, increased costs in all areas and reduced funding from the state. In making those cuts, there were very few areas that remained untouched, every one of our unions and schools were affected.  I can vouch that cutting people and programs does not make one particularly popular. So when I chose to again run for the school board, I was both surprised and honored to be endorsed by those who work so hard on our children’s behalf.

Mr. Terry is correct, I did register with the PDC (Public Disclosure Commission) that I would spend $10,000 on my campaign, as did my opponent. That amount barely covers printing and postage for one brochure.

While I cannot vouch for excellence in every district across our country, I can in Northshore. We are fortunate to have students ready to learn, involved parents and teachers who are committed and care. This is what ultimately leads to success.

While much of Mr. Terry’s comments are time-worn arguments, I completely agree with his statement that “caring and committed, superior teachers make the difference.” How fortunate we are in Northshore to have just such professionals educating our children.

B-Z Davis