Gordon Clay here. Do you remember a front page heading in The Pilot back in August that read "Brookings school students near state average." They aren't even average. It went on to say the Brookings' eigth-graders struggled in all subjects. Only 46% met math standards, 48% met reading standards, and 55% met science standards. In contrast, state averages are in the 70's.

On the front page of Tuesday's USA Today it reported that in 1970, 64% of college graduates were men, 36% women. In 2007, 53.5% were women and 46.5% men. Also, women's earnings grew 44% compared to 6% for men.

As educator's know full well, boys tend to do better with active learning rather than sitting and trying to absorb a subject. Yet, the last round of cuts removed metal and wood shop from the curriculum and several areas of our sports program no longer have a coach on staff. These activities prepare some students who don't plan or can't afford to go to college, to find jobs. And, if 66/67 don't pass, the Brookings/Harbor School District is looking at an additional $400M cut in the next school year's budget.

When I think of how much we continue to cut out of our education system because we don't seem to be willing to provide the funds, unlike most other developed countries do for the education of their children, and then I see one of those professionally made "Job Killing" signs on Chetco Avenue that, in my estimation is totally based in greed, I am saddened for the future of our county. Oregon voters have a chance to decide who they think deserves a break - and who can pay a little bit more. Does anyone care?