In a recent front page article (Dec. 28, Panther Valley awaits funds ...), PVSD superintendent David McAndrew is quoted as saying, “Our local taxpayers try very hard to support our schools.” Mr. McAndrew made this statement in front of the state’s Basic Education Funding Commission, which is exploring new - and “equitable” - ways to fund public education statewide.

Mr. McAndrew should have qualified his remark by pointing out that the only ones paying school district taxes in support of his schools are local property owners. He might have mentioned that a significant number of his local residents actually pay nothing directly to the district because they don’t own property. Also, he should have admitted that his school district, like every other school district, tries its hardest to squeeze every penny it can from its taxpaying property owners, including senior citizen homeowners living on fixed incomes. Mr. McAndrew might also have mentioned that school district property taxes have historically been viewed as draconian, onerous and unfair.

Most state residents who pay school property taxes try very hard to pay what’s demanded of them simply so they can remain in their homes. Altruism has nothing to do with it. It’s a stretch to imply these long-suffering taxpayers are happily supporting public education when many can barely make ends meet.

There is only one way to insure that public education is funded “equitably.” Regardless of financial situation or station in life, everyone must eat and wear clothing. To make public school funding truly fair and “equitable” - meaning everyone sacrifices and pays their fair share for the public good - the state must abolish school property taxes altogether and begin taxing all food and all clothing.

L. Ernie Foucault

Kresgeville