Oregonian letter to the editor, 1/7/07: "Early Childhood Education"

Oregonian letter to the editor, 1/7/07: "Early Childhood Education"

I'd like to know why the article "What's best for the kids?" accepts without question the pathetic premise that Oregon "can't afford" to provide Head Start, full-day kindergarten and low class sizes for all children.

As a mother and a taxpayer, I say: Yes, we can afford to do the best for Oregon's children. We just have to muster the political will.

Making corporations pay their fair share will get us part of the way. I am sure that corporations want a bright, well-educated work force. They also want to support their workers (especially lower-paid workers) who are struggling to find quality care for their young children. Less-stressed working parents translate to higher productivity.

To raise additional funds needed, how about reducing or eliminating the many tax breaks for wealthy individuals and out-of-state corporations? Where there's a will, there's a way to raise the money.

RUTH ADKINS Southwest Portland