Twas the night before . . .

The election is tomorrow and it is time for me to stop campaigning.

I am writing this at the kitchen table, sitting next to my daughter who is watching a program about the American Revolution on her Chromebook as a homework assignment.  Is this the future of education or just a fad?  Is she better off watching a video than reading a book?  Are there better uses to which we could put technology?  Are these devices worth the cost? 

These are questions that have been on my mind and that the Board will need to explore over the next four years as Edina Schools prepare to meet the challenges and opportunities of our time. But there are other things that are also on my mind.

My daughter’s program playing in the background has me thinking about the American Revolution.  Our country was founded by people with a profound faith in reason: in the power of scientific thought and intellectual interchange; in the value of education.  Americans have kept the faith over two centuries through our support of free public education.  Public schools are the incubators of our genius, the engines of our economic success, and the foundation of our democracy.  It is in the public schools that our children – thrown together with all of the different kinds of people who live in their community – learn that people can have different ideas and values and beliefs and still work and play together, respect one another, and be friends.   

It is in the public schools – our most democratic institution – that the community makes known its priorities, signals its aspirations, and determines its future.  Teach children to love science and math, and we will have a generation of engineers.  Provide equal opportunities to all children, and we will reduce inequality.  Hold children accountable for their actions, and they will be responsible adults.

Tomorrow, in school board elections across Minnesota, we will be electing men and women who will help to determine the future.  Their decisions will directly impact the priorities and values of a generation.  Sadly, in spite of the importance of these elections, turnout is likely to be extremely low throughout the state.  But you can make a difference.  Regardless of whether you have children in school, take a stand and be heard.  Declare your belief in the future.  Vote.