Cutting public education funding could stifle the next Steve Jobs

USA Today says Steve Jobs was the last of the “Innovators.” Who will take his place? Will there be anyone? Where do they come from? Or was Steve Jobs the very last?

My guess is if basic education in the primary and secondary level is underfunded and largely ignored, it will be hard to nurture and incubate innovators like Steve Jobs. Usually the spark is struck in early elementary school if not before. Curious minds happen early in the very young and if encouraged, continue to grow.

But, this can only happen if caring teachers and adults are there to mentor the curious child. Certainly Steve Jobs had an enormous curiosity in his early life and someone was there to cultivate it. And my guess is it was a helpful elementary school teacher and/or parent.

But my point is schools, teachers, and public funded classroom education should not be neglected during these difficult economic times. Tomorrows Steve Jobs is in elementary school now as we speak. His or her curiosity needs close attention. Attention by sincere and helpful educators. Educators with reasonable size classes, adequate textbooks, and the entire essential tools to generate the child’s interest and desire to grow and learn.

If it requires letting the public golf course to be left uncut and minimally maintained, so be it. Put the money where our future is. Our Children. Our children are our future and our national strength. Don’t cut education spending. Don’t cut classroom teachers. Don’t cut books and materials.

I know there is another Steve Jobs out there somewhere. He or she will pop up soon. Just you watch.

Please please don’t cut education funding.