recently read a Des Moines Register editorial about the so-called No Child Left Behind bill. Everyone in education is concerned about No Child Left Behind, not only because it is not fully funded, but also because it puts testing before our children’s education.

I was just at a Kappa Delta Pi conference in St. Louis, where a third grade teacher of the year from her state said she didn’t want her third graders contemplating suicide because they didn’t pass their end of the year test. This is one of the unanticipated consequences of one-size-fits-all education policy.

I believe teachers, education professionals and anyone who cares about their children need to voice their displeasure at the polls and in the caucuses.

I believe John Kerry will correct the wrongs of No Child Left Behind and make an education trust fund a national priority. That means fully funding education, no questions asked. Hands down, he is the best choice for education.

When I go to caucus, I will keep my children, my students and my colleagues in mind and support John Kerry.

Jerry Pierce

Ames