Denying better schools to migrants not the answer

To the editor:

I recently overheard a conversation about the upcoming school bond. One farmer was telling another how frustrated he was that our taxes go to build schools and provide benefits for an ever-growing migrant population.

He also complained how little they seem to be involved in the community, and how much that soured him. He opposes the school bond for that reason and others.

I feel his frustration. For a few years I have been a kids soccer coach. Nothing is more frustrating than having 100 kids show up to play, but only six parents volunteer to coach.

However, I don't think withholding financial support from the schools does anything to address this problem.

This particular farmer owns orchards where he undoubtedly employs migrant workers. Others who oppose the bond own dairies that also employ migrant workers.

Yet others own housing where migrant workers pay them rent. And others work in businesses dependent on the aforementioned employers, such as irrigation supply companies.

Employers can't have it both ways. They can't bring migrants here to work for low wages and then expect they won't use any resources.

To me it seems like the height of hypocrisy.

I farm, but I don't have any employees at the moment. However, I do have four kids that are, or will be attending school here.

They will be in FFA. They have already taken animals to the fair. They will be attending with the grandchildren of many of the opponents to the school bond.

And it sounds like they will be attending in a mobile home.

Makes ya proud don't it?

Ryan Piercy

Royal City