Speak up: Readers zero in on school districts, road work

Gilbert Public Schools advances K-6 English curriculum search

So, so much money was spent on that last curriculum. I wonder why the thought is that "new must be better!" — Bonnie N.H.

Gilbert Public Schools raises substitute pay by $25 a day

You’d have a lot more subs if it didn’t require a degree. Honestly, for one day here and there in many different types of classes? Why does a degree matter? A stay-at-home mom has way more “education" and experience with children … and free time! — Stacy T.H.

Am I reading this correctly? $150 a day to sub? Do they not realize there’s fast food places paying more than that for an 8 hour day, no degree required? SMH. — Kevin L.

Offer a benefit package for retirees. Something like sub twice a week and you can buy our benefits for less than the ASRS charges. — Rob S.

They deserve every penny! — Carol W.F.

They've consistently been the lowest paid in the state. The only reason I do it is because of convenience with my kids. But they can't fill all the jobs. — Liz P.

Higley Road water pipeline project begins Sept. 28

Higley has been under construction for years! Can we get one thing completed? — Kristi E.

Sometimes I dream of driving on Higley Road every morning and it not being under constant construction and stuck in backups. — Austin H.

Welcome to Gilbert. The town where nothing is ever completed before half the crew moves to a different project. Enjoy your stay. — Jeffrey K.

Higley board approves journalism travel over DEI objection

Proud of the board members that chose to honor the excellence of this teacher and having them recognized on the national level. Shine light on the good things happening in Higley USD and let the negative lose at the ballot box. — Ben H.

Education is horrible about building their professionals. If you want an outstanding passionate teacher, provide a way for them to stay current and productive in their field. This opportunity will pay dividends for students. — Darcy J.C.

As a HUSD parent and taxpayer I absolutely think this approval is ridiculous. I also appreciate Anna (Van Hoek) ALWAYS asking questions and questioning others why things happen the way they do or simply pushing for transparency and spending money wisely for reasons that truly benefit our students. I am thankful for Anna's dedication and the courage to speak up despite having a few haters. — Charissa G.

Mesa splitting $61.3M cost of Power Road improvements with Maricopa County, Gilbert

That section of Power Road is past due for an upgrade; I drove that area a couple of weeks ago and surprised by all the growth there. — Jim H.

Another road that will be torn up for months. It is like every major road in the Southeast Valley has major construction. — Herb G.