My top priority is to improve the quality of education in Idaho. I believe that educational priorities must focus on early childhood reading development, teaching basic academic skills, providing additional opportunities for students to excel, and graduating students with employable skills. I share your concern about educational opportunities as I have seven grandchildren who are or will attend Idaho public schools. With each child, we only have one chance to do it right.

My next priority is to promote economic growth. Economic growth is the key to enhancing the quality of life. I believe we must create a business environment that supports development and expansion of businesses in Idaho. This will create jobs and enhance our quality of life. I know that lower taxes and tax incentives will spur growth, create jobs and enhance our quality of life.

Transportation is an integral part of commerce and industry, essential for movement of goods and people in the State of Idaho. I believe it is critical to provide adequate funding to maintain the safety of our roads and bridges in Idaho. Keeping up with scheduled maintenance will save lives and money.

Traditional family values are the foundation of our nation. Families, not government programs, are the best way to properly nurture and protect our children, care for our elderly, preserve and perpetuate our cultural and religious heritage, and assure that our traditional values are transmitted to the next generation.

I understand that promoting strong families and renewing an individual sense of responsibility are key to reversing the erosion of our social fabric.

I believe that Idaho's social and fiscal programs should reinforce parental responsibility and authority, and not promote or reward the disintegration of the family. The generational cycle of dependence and despair must be broken. I strongly feel the answers are in quality education, job opportunities, and individual responsibility.

Sincerely,

Rich Jarvis