Thanks for the input, tiffysquid. Perhaps you'll share your ideas with our state reps?
I'd like to see the state find better, more ecologically sound ways to generate a little cash from Elliott State Forest. Why is this issue ususally presented as Either/Or (to make a different Elliott reference)?
Let's go for Both/And. Retain state ownership of the forest, and task supporters of that effort with (for free) finding creative, useful ways to allow some small amount of commercial activity on the land to generate revenue. For example, set aside 25 acres for an eco-tourism resort or a sustainability-focused co-housing farm, and find a private partner to make some money at that.
There is actually one elementary counselor at Pine Ridge. It doesn't solve the problem, but it does show a step in the right dierectuon.
I can't agree with you more, Gary. Having worked as a counselor for the Bend LaPine School District until 2010, I have observed the reduction of counselors and the general increase of unmet mental health needs, families and students who are dissatisfied with lack of counseling, college and career planning, and a sharp increase in youth deaths by suicide. It is time for the District to partner with their local higher education institution, OSU and constituents to restore counseling staffing levels in all schools - in addition to providing this team of counselors with appropriate support and leadership to function as intended. Thank you for shedding light on this important issue.
I agree that important student needs are being compromised for technology in school and as a parent of 3 school age children I don't think they need more technology. I also did not have ipads for my children, on purpose. Aside from funding counselors, money is also needed for art and science in schools.
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Re: “The Debate Over the Elliott”
I have mentioned it briefly on postcards to the head of State Treasury, Mr. Read, who is from what I understand tasked with seeing that these lands generate revenue rather than costing the state more money to maintain...