Last week the two Area 2 school board members held the first of what they expect to be a series of "community chats." The public was invited to come and share their own thoughts and concerns regarding local schools in these trying financial times.

Keith Liner and Ray Fleming presented an overview of where things are and what the board is trying to do.

But the real treat was listening to the parents and teachers gathered there. It was refreshing to hear folks discuss how to reinstate taxes -- not a frivolous suggestion but a real desire to improve education. One parent expressed concern that the sentiment of the growing retirement population is often "I've done my share ... I shouldn't have to pay school taxes."

But think about that: The students of today are the doctors of tomorrow -- the people who will be caring for those retirees, working in the nursing homes, handling our finances ... who will set the tone for generations to come. Do we really want to abandon their education?

Paying for our public schools is critical. With the dwindling dollar, the schools must, unfortunately, look more often to the private sector. And that may be the real answer. Perhaps it's time to take care of our own. Organizations like PEP and North Augusta 2000 have stepped up to the plate and tried to take a small portion of the burden off the public sector.

But individuals can help as well. If you don't have the financial resources, perhaps you have the time. Volunteer in the schools. Become a mentor or a band booster or a member of a civic club that provides scholarships. Take part in the community chats -- You might have an idea that no one else thought about.

We need to be involved in the education process -- no matter what our age. For if we abandon our schools and the children in them, our future is indeed bleak.