Input sought on education

How should Utah schools handle a teacher shortage mixed with 160,000 new students coming in the next 10 years?

The Utah Senate is taking your suggestions online and could have something to share Friday.

"We've asked all of our readers to help find ways we can make good on our commitment to education," says "The Senate Site: Unofficial Voice of the Utah Senate Majority," www.senatesite.com/blog/2008/01/coming-life-after-vouchers-part-i.html.

Proposals are expected to include some already debated bills, including paying for some teachers to teach all year to help maximize the work force and building use, and other ideas.

"If we've learned anything from Referendum 1, it's that the public needs to buy into proposals for education reform," Senate President John Valentine, R-Orem, said, referring to the vouchers defeat at the polls last November.

The three postings so far include more money for schools and a head tax.

Sen. Carlene Walker, R-Cottonwood Heights, says she's looking for suggestions, particularly from teachers and school leaders "other than give us more money."

"There is not enough money, and we know that," she said.