Steve Clute: Public Education: The Character is at Risk

Steve Clute
Special to InstantRiverside.com

I believe the core of education is represented by good teachers with tremendous skills and abilities to inspire, motivate and educate children and students. In today’s state budget climate, sadly, too many teachers are also at risk of losing their job. My following comments focus on the coaches, counselors and yes, the school nurses who also play key roles in the character development of our young students.

School is made up of formal (classroom) and informal experiences available to students. Informal experiences may not only target knowledge, but attributes of character, and may include mentors, parents, counselors, coaches, role models and nurses. The formal and informal processes combines for a complete education and develops community conscience and the spirit of “Giving Back.” I fear the informal aspect of education is about to be lost.

The great Teacher and Coach John R. Wooden said, “Success is peace of mind which is a direct result of self-satisfaction in knowing you did the best of which you are capable.” How do most students ever realize this definition of success without Coaches, Counselors and Nurses?

I acknowledge that some will persevere beyond all obstacles, but am afraid that too many will lack guidance and proper direction. It takes preparation and motivation to maximize the external and informal opportunities of education.

I strongly believe the roles of Coaches, Counselors and Nurses are fundamental to character development through education. Be assured that there are thousands if not a million stories in just the Inland Empire where one of these professionals guided a boy, a girl, a student on the path to success.

A CEO at Young & Rubicam Brand named Ann Fudge said, “We’re here for something. Life is about giving and living fully.” Most students will not have the opportunities to give and live fully if we don’t make them and their educational leaders our priorities.

With $11.2 billion recently cut from the state budget by primarily Democrats—now it is time for the Republicans to step up and allow the extension of taxes to be placed on the State Ballot for public vote.

Let’s keep character in public education. Does this solve all our problems? No. Does it affirm that Students and Education are our top priorities?

If it passes, absolutely yes!

Steve Clute

Steve Clute is a former Riverside Assemblyman. He represented the area from 1982-1990. He was born in Chicago, Illinois. Steve is married to UC Riverside Math Professor Pamela Clute.

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