Wednesday, August 20, 2003

For nine years my mother participated in a carpool to take my brother and me to and from the bus stop which was at least a half mile from our home. She never asked the school system to spend $1.25 million to make her life a little more convenient. I doubt that thought even crossed her mind.

Earlier generations believed that children were gifts from God and were the parents' responsibility to raise. However, many parents in my generation all too gladly turn their children and all responsibility for their education and transportation over to the government at age 4. I have a few suggestions for the parents who can no longer see their children hop on the bus from the convenience of their front window:

1. Get up a little earlier and walk with your children to the bus stop. You might be amazed at what your child confides in you as you walk and talk. 2. Organize a carpool to the bus stop. 3. Drive your precious children to school.

I get out of bed an hour and a half before my children awake so I can greet them with a smile. This not only makes for a less stressful morning, but allows my five children and me to take a one-mile walk each morning.

Please, let's support the Board of Education in cutting $1.25 million in costs. Let's keep our property taxes from rising by taking a little more time and responsibility for our children.

Kathryn Hynson

Peachtree City, GA.