What a wonderful idea to acknowledge our school personnel with a $250,000 party to honor the work they do throughout the year! Further, isn’t it ironic in this election year that Gov. John Baldacci has “officially” proclaimed Oct. 18 “Celebrate School People Day.”

The only negative with this plan is Wednesday, Oct. 18, is a teaching day, and for every teacher joining the celebration, there will be a need for a substitute, calculated at approximately $80,000 extra cost to the school districts for all participants. Further, does anyone really believe that the level of teaching by a substitute would in any way equate to the quality of education offered by the “regular” daily classroom teacher?

Oops, I almost forgot – the schools are asked to pick up an estimated $16,000 in travel expenses so the celebrants won’t have to pay for transportation to “their party.”

Here’s how to save $80,000 plus: Gov. Baldacci proclaims Saturday, Oct. 21, as “Celebrate School People Day,” hold the party on Saturday, no need for substitutes, students have their regular teacher on Wednesday, Oct. 18 and no money is wasted.

What did you say? What if the teachers don’t want to give up part of their weekend to be honored and partied? Hum – now there is a problem – I never thought of that!

Cliff Gill, West Poland