After reading the backandforth in our local Acorn about the state of education in California, I'd like to bring the conversation back to Conejo Valley, where most readers live. Here we are not failing to educate students.

Our schools boast high API scores and graduation rates, and our students post impressive scores on many standardized tests. Conejo Valley Unified School District addresses the needs of all its students with many Advanced Placement courses, strong school-to-career programs and outstanding extraand co-curricular programs. Struggling learners are provided support through innovative programs that work.

Is education perfect here? No. Do local educators continue to work harder with less? You bet!

The amount of money that comes to CVUSD in the "unrestricted general fund" is getting smaller. In years past, there have been increases to education; however, these extra funds often are earmarked for specific programs that must be used for specific purposes mandated by law.

As one writer pointed out, not all schools get equal amounts per student. That's because not all funding is available for every student. Inequities do exist in state and federal funding.

Discrepancies exist in fundraising capabilities, and this also creates inequities. But somewhere in this imperfect system there are kids that live here in our community who deserve the best education possible. They're our future leaders, educators, business owners and employees- - perhaps even employers. They are our children, our future. We need them to be well-prepared.

Conejo Valley hasn't escaped the grim realities of these economic times. We all know people who are hurting, and it would follow that many kids are hurting, too, perhaps feeling insecure and scared for the first time.

Students didn't create the problems; let's not ask them to pay for them.

Compromise and understanding from all parties is a lesson for everyone. Budget cuts are going to happen.

Dedicated people are going to lose their jobs, and programs are going to be reduced or cut.

It's going to hurt. Let's not add to the damage by punishing the victims or those who are doing their best to support them. Dianne McKay Thousand Oaks