The future of Maine depends on the education our students receive. These students will one day be opening and running businesses here.

So why is our government cutting education funding?

The state cut $951,966 from Maine community colleges. How do we continue to properly educate our students and convince them to stay in a state that cuts money from their education?

Six students at Eastern Maine College were told they would not be able to return this fall to the advanced welding program and finish their degree because of a $24,000 funding shortfall. These students are now competing for jobs with students from other states with the full degree.

Why does this state continue to support those who don’t work, but cut from those who are trying to get a good education to support themselves?

If state government continues cutting from the educational system, young residents will leave to receive a decent higher education and then be less likely to return for employment.

As far as the six students at EMCC, they will only be able to return to school this fall to finish their degree if the school comes up with $24,000. Those students are hoping businesses or individuals will come through for them with donations to the program.

We need to show our government what matters to us. It’s an investment in everyone’s future, not just these six students.

Tracy Bessey

Kingfield