The article “Voters can end dysfunction at State Board of Education” (Austin American Statesman, February 14th 2010) was published by the Austin American Statesmen. This newspaper publishes articles focused on different issues within our city and the surrounding area. It is neither a purely republican or democratic newspaper. In 2000 and 2004, the newspaper endorsed Bush. However, in the most recent election, it endorsed Obama. It is apparent that the author of this editorial is writing to potential voters. The audience is anyone eligible to vote for representatives within our State Board of Education. The author is arguing that the current board is dysfunctional. One of the author’s key points is that our school system is focused too much on basic skills than technology. However, the author does not clarify what certain elements of technology should be stressed within our school system. Basic skills are necessary for students to graduate and enter into the workforce. Therefore, the author should elaborate on which basic skills are overemphasized within our schools. Another argument is that our schools should not focus on abstinence when we have so many teenage pregnancies within our city. The editorial does not outline how long the schools have emphasized abstinence or alternative measures for preventing pregnancy. The author seems to assume that if citizens vote for the representatives noted, these problems will be solved. Although the potential candidates are listed with a brief comment of their experience, their views and goals for our schools are not mentioned. The article doesn’t seem to have much evidence. In order to be more persuasive, the author should have added numerical data. Information about the specific number of teen pregnancies would be beneficial. Also, testing scores and how technology would affect them would support his argument. The editorial seems to be focused more on emotion than evidence. The author seems to be venting his feelings about our education board, rather than explaining how to overcome these issues. This article is not very convincing to me. The author has understandable arguments, but they are not supported. I agree that our school system has room to improve and needs to find creative ways to enhance learning. However, I will not vote for these candidates simply because our board doesn’t seem functional. I must see proof of the candidates’ goals and beliefs. The author is making an argument based on emotion. This makes me believe that sometimes people vote on gut reaction. Many peoples’ reaction to this editorial may be “Yes, our board is dysfunctional. Therefore, I agree with the rest of the article.” However, it is important to find further insight when voting. I want to believe that our citizens never vote from pure emotion, but this article makes me believe it is a possibility.