Education Spending

Your editorial asserting that “There Is No Substitute for a Good Teacher” (April 17) cannot be disputed. However, there is more to it than that.

A good teacher cannot do the job alone. I have been a volunteer tutor in public grade schools for many years. I listen to children read and supply words they cannot remember. I help children memorize their math facts. Sometimes I help them with homework because no one at home helps them. Parents with a fourth-grade education can do the same thing at home on a daily basis.

A classroom teacher is educated to present new learning material in an interesting and comprehensive manner. Some teachers may do some drilling or give a limited amount of individual help in reading when time permits. Without after-school supplemental study and drilling, however, most children are unable to learn the skills they need for success throughout their school years.

It is necessary to have a state-supported program to encourage and teach parents how to help their young children at home.

ELEANOR M. WEIDMAN

Kernville