Governor's comments on education encouraging

As is the tradition, on Monday Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter laid out his agenda for the 2014 session of the Idaho Legislature.

Though the governor spoke on many topics, I am particularly encouraged by what the governor said about education.

I have always placed priority on Idaho’s education system and was pleased to hear Gov. Otter’s plans to replenish the money we had to cut during our difficult economic downturn. I’m also pleased with his emphasis on K through career: recognizing our education system should be a complete package for our students.

In particular, the governor’s proposal calls for 2.9-percent, $37.4-million boost for public education as the start of a five-year effort to boost the quality of Idaho’s schools. While we are just starting to dive into the details of the budget and it is not clear how much we will be able to do, it is rewarding to hear the governor, Idaho Superintendent of Education Tom Luna, and other legislators express understanding of the need to build this funding back. Doing so at the state level not only helps bolster our public school system — a requirement in our Idaho Constitution — it may reduce the amounts requested for levies on our property tax bills.

I have always said that it is essential that our elected officials hear directly from Idahoans. I’m pleased to announce that the Joint Finance and Appropriations Committee will hold public hearings on the budget. As the vice chairman of that committee, I look forward to hearing from Idahoans on how our precious resources should be used and in particular want to hear from you at home in my district.

You don’t need to travel to Boise to let me know what is on your mind. You can follow my Facebook page, Senator Shawn Keough. I will use this page for timely information about this year’s legislative session and to listen to your ideas and concerns. You can also check out my website at shawnkeough.com or you can send me an email message at skeough@senate.idaho.gov.

Also, for information on the bills that are being considered this session, please go to: http://www.legislature.idaho.gov. You will find information on legislation, be able to listen in or watch committee proceedings, and send comments to legislators.

I would also like to take the time to reflect on some difficult losses in our community.

As most know, this week was the funeral for Air Force Capt. David Lyon, who died in Afghanistan, after his vehicle was hit by enemy fire. Many in our community knew David as an Air Force Academy graduate and Air Force veteran, as well as track star at Sandpoint High School. To honor Capt. Lyon, state flags were flown at half staff. My thoughts and prayers go to the family and friends of the captain.

I was saddened to learn that Sandpoint Mayor Marsha Ogilvie has passed away. I’ve known and worked alongside of Marsha as many of you have and have always admired and appreciated her work for our community. I am particularly grateful for her work in establishing Kinderhaven, which earned her the state’s first annual “Brightest Star” award, a ceremony I was proud to participate in.

My thoughts are also with the family of Shirley McDonald, who died in a house fire two weeks ago. Ron and Shirley are integral members of the Priest Lake community and are pillars in the logging industry. I am saddened by this tragedy as I know many are.

Though it is tough to be away from home, I feel honored and privileged to serve the citizens of the 1st District in the Idaho State Senate. Thank you, and, stay in touch!