Until and unless the entire tax system is overhauled,

Until and unless the entire tax system is overhauled, I see nothing wrong with returning part of the income tax collected to the county. I only wish it could be done with less bureaucratic paperwork.

Of course, all this is hypothetical since Gov. Allen has rejected the Goals 2000 funds for Virginia. If that changes, the small amount of money destined for Rappahannock makes this discussion almost a waste of time. ‘ Finally — and this is my most important point — I invite Mr. Frazier, Mr. Longyear, Cathy Smith, John L. Marocchi, and any others who publish opinions on our educational system, but who do not have children in it, to spend an hour or two a week volunteering in our schools.

As the parent of a RCHS sophomore and a RCES first-grader, I am regularly at both schools, helping with various projects. The teachers, with rare .exception, are excellent. So are the school superintendent, assistant superintendent and principals.

Last year, I extensively researched the area’s private schools in an effort to determine the best schooling for my husband’s and my two school-age children and one preschooler.

My findings, which appeared in a series in the Rappahannock News, led me to believe that students in the Rappahannock school system can match or surpass private-school students, especially if they have motivated parents.

I would like critics to remember, when citing test scores and the costs of educating our children, that the public schools turn away nobody. The emotionally disturbed child whp requires one-on-one attention rightfully claims a share of our tax dollars and an opportunity to take our standardized tests.

To the school board, administrators and teachers of Rappahannock County: Keep up your good work. You are appreciated by those of us who see the results of your labor.

BONNIE PRICE LOFTON

Laurel Mills