Arizona State Miner

Community Building

Interest in Schools Highest Civic Virtue

It is estimated in the bureau of education, Department of the Interior, that there are approximately 12,000,000 children enrolled in the different types of rural schools in the United States. About nine million of these children come from farm homes. The others live chiefly in small villages, but are part of the farm population. To provide the best modern educational advantages for these children is a cause worthy of generous sacrifice if that sacrifice is necessary. The money that we pay in taxes for the education of our children is our very best investment, provided that we are wise enough to insure that it is well spent. How can we do this? Generally, so far as the ordinary farm citizen is concerned-the man in the road, to paraphrase a popular expression-by showing an intelligent interest in the school all the year round. Not spasmodically, but constantly.

Is there a board member to be selected? Then go to the voting place and help select the best person for the job. Is a new schoolhouse, or are repairs for an old one needed? Then do your part to insure that the building is the best the community can afford. Is a teacher to be employed? Do all you can to see that the school board members are encouraged to get the best teacher available. Raise the salary if necessary, but do not be satisfied with a cheap teacher. The board will follow the sentiment of the community in regard to the qualifications and salary of the teacher.

Do your part in creating a community sentiment favorable to a good school. The citizens of the community are responsible for the quality of the farmers' school-not just the members of the school board.