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Although the majority of Utahns have rejected school vouchers, it doesn't necessarily mean they favor the status quo. Indeed, KSL believes the time is ripe for aggressively forging ahead to reform the state's public school system with a goal of making it more efficient, effective and accountable.
A number of credible ideas are already on the table, offered by various task forces, study groups and other experts.
For example, lengthening the school year could help address the growing shortage of teachers and the need for more buildings. Incentive or merit pay along with a more competitive salary structure would likely improve the quality of the teacher corp. As well, keen attention must be given to various proposals for restructuring the state's system for funding education.
Let those who so adamantly and passionately supported vouchers now redirect their well-intentioned efforts toward realistic school reform. On Capitol Hill, constructive progress rather than inane retribution should be the order of the day.
And rather than gloat in their victory, let those who opposed vouchers join in the crusade. Those in the education community, especially, should lend their expertise to this cause, and not let their professional loyalties become impediments to responsible reform.
