As the Legislature considers the state budget, it’s time to focus on real, lasting solutions that strengthen public education across New Hampshire.

Education Freedom Accounts only serve to weaken the public school system. There is no oversight or accountability with the voucher program. Using taxpayer dollars to support a program that the majority of New Hampshire citizens are opposed to is wrong.

Our public schools have been asked to do more with less. Rising costs-for things like teacher salaries, special education and building maintenance have gone unmatched by the state’s contribution. Communities are forced to make difficult cuts, while local property taxpayers carry the weight.

The voters of the seven towns that make up the Kearsarge Regional School District voted overwhelmingly that they did not want their budget reduced. The message they sent with the approval of the budget should be noted by the legislators in New Hampshire.

Let’s make this year’s budget a turning point-and give every child in New Hampshire a fair shot at success.

Janet Kidder

New London