Compared to other NATO countries, we are already far behind in universal access to higher education. Many EU high school graduates have access to a university education regardless of their financial situation. Stop arguing about who is eligible for tuition aid for college and college education.

As a retired environmental historian and sailor, I believe that the strength of a democracy is directly related to the median education level of voters. The less educated voters are, the more opportunities there are for an ambitious dictator to manipulate them.Think Donald Trump and his supporters.

To sustain a democratic republic, higher education must be available to all who seek it. We must also make higher education financially accessible through a graduated income tax that collects more from the rich than from the middle class and poor.

During colonial times, New England towns under the jurisdiction of Massachusetts had to have free public schools in order to be represented on the governor’s council.

An investment in public education is an investment in political stability and economic growth.

William Burgess Leavenworth
Searsmont

Related article