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In leaving Utah last week to assume his new duties in Washington, former Governor Mike Leavitt said some things in his “Farewell Address” that bear repeating and remembering.
As Utahns know, the state’s school population is growing dramatically. Yet, as Leavitt pointed out, Utah spends significantly less than the national average on education:
“If our solution is to simply pour more water in the soup, we destine future generations to the economic malnutrition inadequate preparation brings.”
Well, said, Governor Leavitt! KSL agrees bold action is needed to adequately meet the education needs of the emerging generation of students.
Leavitt also spoke of Utah’s changing demographics:
“When I became governor the ethnic population was 9%. A decade later as I leave, it is 16%. Within 25 years it will be 22%.”
That, in KSL’s view, is an astounding change. We agree with Mr. Leavitt – it is a change that needs to be embraced and viewed “as a strength and an opportunity.”
KSL believes Mr. Leavitt’s parting words are more than mere rhetoric. They reflect the wisdom of a man who, for eleven years, has immersed himself in the affairs of state. Indeed, they are genuine observations about two critical issues that will affect the future of all Utahns.
