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Sam229

Okay- I get it. There are two democratic candidates who will have a primary to determine who will run in the general election in November 2012 and the winner in November 2012 will represent CD-1 which has just been determined by redistricting.
We who live in Nevada are use to looking at odds in all kinds of races and can even place a bet on who will win, loose or draw. We bet on our favorites for our own reasons--maybe we like the team's mascot. Senator Reid is entitled to place a bet- private or public. The difference hopefully in an election is there will be more research into who we vote for than in who we bet on for Sunday night football.

I enjoy politcal commentary-- nevertheless it would be great to have the candidates debate each other--- using their own words so that voters can have a chance to look at the issues, the records, the experience and what each candidate has to offer. Campaigns and Elections are the true test as to who will become an elected official not editorials. I respectfully ask Jon Ralston to invite the candidates to debate on Face to Face -- and am asking others to offer to sponsor additional debate opportunities. Speculation is great- however speculation is as speculation does-- just ask me about my real estate investments today made pre 2007.

lfricke outlines a thoughtful process for students in the "Discipline / Alternative "sector of K-12 public education. "Alternative" programs, to be effective, require that students get taining from trained professionals not just time out from the regular schools.$$$$ Labels must be more than the names of programs or locations. In Nevada there are legal provisions for comprehensive K-12 education, alternative education programs and under the 2000 18 TO 24 year old (individuals who have no secondary credential; high school diploma or GED) initiative, adult education( also provided in corrections) Seems that if we use provisions appropriatley students and the community will be better served. Funding is always diffcult.

The article raises some very serious issues. There is a fudamental right for every student under 18 (AB 212 2007 and SB 312 2007--- 22 if entitled to special education services )to a public education. There is a reasonable expectation for a safe environment for all students and staff on school campuses.
Students who do not follow rules, cause disruptions or may harm themselves or other students are not best served within the traditional school setting. A time out does not seem to be the solution. What is now provided by Behavior/ Continuation Schools is a time out. Then what ? Alternative placement/ alternative programs should be on the table as part of the discussion. Smaller class size and professionals working with the students in addtition to teachers involve more money.( Charter School format?) The cost factor should be balanced with the alternative of paying later-- more crowded prisons and / or many poorly educated adults in our community. The students in the article are not adults so adult programs are not appropriate until they are at least 18. There must be intervention for the students after time out to prevent loosing them altogether or allowing a tragic event that could have been prevented from happening. Providing an effective educational program as a place to go after the time out- alternative to what we are now providing could make the difference.