Letters to the editor, July 18, 2008

Forcing algebra on eighth graders a horrible idea

What kinds of morons are the members of the California State Board of Education to mandate algebra to eighth graders when the governor directed them to?

He does not even know what it is or what it is used for. He does not use it, nor do the board members or the legislature.
Probably only four percent of the workforce — engineers, surveyors, designers, contractors, and a few more professions — will use algebra in their jobs. Ninety-six percent will never use it.

You cannot learn algebra unless you learn basic math first. With the terrible scores on math tests and school dropout numbers, and then you force algebra on the students, the dropout numbers are going to soar to record numbers.

With only a few high school graduates going on to college, why not concentrate on vocational training — show the students videos of people working at all different jobs to let them get interested in an occupation. Like I said, none will need algebra.

How about workplace ethics, courtesy, and dress? Hey, they could even teach them to make change from a cash register.

Oh well! I guess the morons at state level who got California billions in the hole over spending know better how to also destroy our schools and teach our children than the parents.

What does over 40 years working after high school graduation matter to them? I have seen the deterioration of education since 1964 and it keeps just getting worse. If you parents have seen this also write in and let your feelings be known.

Bill Kirk
Barstow

About that compost facility ...

The Barstow image has suffered over the years but nothing compared to the future if we idly sit by and let them put an open composting facility in Hinkley. The Barstow area will be considered the toilet of the desert. I assumed “corrupt government as usual” when the county supervisors okayed it. Obviously, none of them live down wind of Hinkley.

Winds of the 45 mph, with gusts to 60, category are not unusual out here and this past spring was the topper of the last 15 years. What tests have been done to determine how far those particles will travel in such winds?

We taxpayers and citizens pay and elect people to be concerned about our health and welfare, not just special interests. Folks, it’s not working.

Nancy Dittman
Barstow