To the editor:
A good education is the cornerstone for raising the standards for all aspects of living. Now more than ever we need the leadership in the U.S. Senate that can get us to the place we want to be in education. We need someone with the keen perception of what it takes and how to raise the level of learning now and in the future. Good leaders have goals and a vision of how to reach those goals. They will not stick to failed policies of the past, but re-evaluate, adjust, and change directions. These are strengths. Good leaders know the issues involved, show a positive attitude and are non-confrontational. They listen sincerely, are critical of ideas not people and recognize individual contributions.
These strengths describe Angus King (Governor 1994-2002), a visionary who had an idea and a plan that guided Maine’s education into the twenty-first century and left a powerful legacy for Maine students.
In the 119th Legislature, an incredible opportunity was offered the students in Maine, but it was met with much resistance. Gov. King introduced the idea for laptops for all seventh-grade students and teachers. The focus of this initiative was not to teach technology, but to use technology for learning in all areas of the curriculum with teacher training before implementation. Money for professional development and training was assured by a grant from the Gates Foundation.
This laptop initiative started out with $50 million in one-time money. The vision was that private contributions and interest would keep the program running into perpetuity. Twenty-five million dollars was siphoned off by the legislature to cover other areas of concern and to balance the supplemental budget. I became very concerned that this wonderful opportunity for Maine students would be lost. Gov. King assured me the program was still viable for at least the initial four-year phase. This vision of what could be has now come to pass.
Angus King’s success as governor, while working with those who had different philosophies on how to reach a goal, has proven he can face any challenge. He will make informed decisions and knows how to communicate ideas and strategies to others in order to get things done.
We need an innovative, independent thinker who can look beyond the present. Angus King is that person. He will represent all of Maine and has the leadership qualities and skills to make this happen. I will be proud to cast my vote for Angus King as U.S. Senator in November.
Mabel J. Desmond
Mapleton
