I think competition is sorely lacking in our public schools. The SOLs helped provide accountability, but beyond that, there needs to be motivation to improve. I believe that a school choice initiative that would give tax credits to parents to select the school of their choice (public or private) would go a long way to providing that incentive. A system for businesses and individuals to get tax credits for donations to scholarship funds would ensure that low-income families would have the same opportunity that others would have.

Also, please introduce an ROTC program into our area high schools. This is a great way for young people to learn discipline, love of country and gives potential for scholarships for college.