FIX THE ICE PROBLEM BY FIXING OUR SCHOOLS

Hawai'i's ice epidemic, for this parent of four, brings to focus bone-wrenching
concern and sadness. I've discovered a call to action at a new level and drive
that I've never really experienced before.

What is ever so clear is that I need to talk to my children more. Conversations
at the dinner table every night about our day's activities is not going to be
enough to substantiate a routine of daily communication. It is ever so evident:
I have to work harder to make sure their homework is complete and that they've
understood and absorbed their day's lessons, and my wife and I are immediately
setting up appointments with their teachers.

My wife or I will have to get involved in their schools' parent/teacher boards
to contribute ideas, for it appears a lack of parental involvement, a lack of
education and a lack of communication are the culprits for this epidemic.

In general terms, it was painfully clear that the addicts did not understand
the consequences of taking the drug, and when they did, it was too late. This
understanding is surely built upon knowledge and the ability to learn. Every
child in Hawai'i's schools has the ability to learn, comprehend and mature into
a successful adult.

So wake up, legislators, as I've been woken up. You want to fix the ice
problem? Start by fixing our schools. Fix our educational system. Do what you
have been telling us you would do for years, and that is make Hawai'i's school
system "second to none." The consequences are in your face.

Jim Cone

Honolulu