I'm appalled at the uninformed statement made by Cynthia Bensch, a candidate for the District 7 seat on Beaufort County Council. Bensch's comment that teacher's unions bear much of the blame for South Carolina's education does nothing to promote a positive vision for educators of Beaufort County and the education of our youth.

The Beaufort County public school system has not signed a contract with the American Federation of Teachers or the National Education Association. I would suggest Bensch do her homework and speak to the members of Beaufort County school board, whom she hopes to be working with, in harmony, in the future. Being informed of policies and procedures would help her understand how a school system functions. Playing politics with our children's education is irresponsible and dangerous.

Be wary of a wolf in sheep clothing.

Bill Payne

Hilton Head Island