Commentaries

June 05, 2009

 Commentaries is where Minnesota Public Radio welcomes your thoughtful opinion about current events and issues. Commentaries are like letters to the editor. To be considered for publication, your commentary should be issue-related, clearly written, and follow our Terms of Use. New insights into ongoing topics are especially welcome. Not all commentaries received are published. For topical interaction with others, visit the discussion groups.

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Let's close the traditional schools as well

The idea that charter schools should be closed because of minor financial accounting issues is ridiculous given the massive amount of fraud and graft present in most urban public school systems. [MPR News: Report: Most charter schools mismanage finances]

I say if we are going to hold charter schools to this standard, let's hold traditional schools to the same standard. Let's close them down and fire their entire staff... oh wait, we can't do that because they are unionized and have jobs for life. Give me a break!

Now the school with $1.3 million missing is another story. We need to shut it down if those allegations are true.

Kent Strong
New York, N.Y.


Tim Pawlenty's political future

The most logical and effective part for Gov. Tim Pawlenty is to run for one of Minnesota's two U.S. Senate seats. [MPR News: Pawlenty won't seek third term; mum about 2012]

It appears two Democrates may occupy those seats. His opportunity statewide is excellent, and this will help Republicans for a 'rebalance.' Statewide, Republicans have been very successful seeking Senate seats in Minnesota. Much discussion is for the 'top' job, or somewhere close to the Presidency, but with Pawlenty's political acumen and the critical need for Republicans to gain in the Senate is most logical. Think practical, political, and possible.

D. Hoelscher
St. Paul, Minn.


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