Education...

I don't know if I've mentioned this before, but I serve on St. Richard's School Board. I've just finished my three year term and I've agreed to serve a one year term. St. Richard is a K-8 school. When I have a child of my own, I plan on sending him or her there.

This is an interesting time to be on a Catholic School board. Catholic education is far superior to public school education and yet enrollment in Catholic Schools is way down. There is talk that some Racine Catholic schools might be closing and some might merge with other schools. The schools are losing money and, yet, they still manage to educate their students for roughly $3000 per year, which is less than the figures I've heard for Racine Unified Students, which have ranged from $6000 to $13000.

It has been proven that smaller class sizes benefit children from every walk of life. Being able to have that one on one time with a teacher is conducive to learning. Yet, our public school systems throughout our state are becoming more and more overcrowded. And, more and more expensive to maintain.

Now, I'm not an expert on education, but when I hear that 85% of St. Richard students who go on to Racine Unified High Schools make the honor roll each year. I believe that we must be doing something right.

Even if you are not Catholic, your child can benefit from a Catholic education. No matter what your religious background is the values are the same.

So, if you've got a little guy or gal who is starting school (and you live in Racine), give St. Richard a chance. They have terrific teachers, a great principal and nice school board members (if I do say so myself). And, this year, the school is looking into starting a 4-year old kindergarden.

God Bless