“Kids say the darndest things” is a phrase used when seemingly naive children bluntly speak the truth. As a high school student, I have a certain knack for consciously “saying the darndest things,” and would like to do so now.

Norm Macdonald does not represent everyone in his riding, and he is being paid as if he does.

Our MLA recently came to David Thompson Secondary to explain to a grade 11 class how government is supposed to work.

Several students asked about the time it takes for new drivers to acquire a driver’s licence, (three years) and the elected official had no idea what students were asking him about. I told Mr. Macdonald that it reflects poorly on him to come into a high school and not be aware of teen issues.

Readers, I am one of the biggest investments you will ever make. I and my classmates are your future, and millions of your tax dollars are spent on us. Tragically, they are also spent paying a man who clearly does not know anything about children or teenagers, and has made no effort to inform himself on such issues.

Why are you paying someone who cannot answer simple questions about driving requirements? What other basic issues is Mr. Macdonald not aware of? The class was told that if they have a problem, they should email him. “If you don’ t write me, then I don’t know.”

I have written our elected representative on four separate occasions, and have never received a response. I am forced to the conclusion that because I am underage and don’t pay taxes, my voice counts for nothing in the eyes of government. However, your tax dollars have not been totally wasted. I am educated, literate, and I know how to use a computer. Your tax dollars have given me the knowledge to inform you all that the person handling your investment does not give adequate attention to it.

George Shaw once said, “He who knows nothing; he thinks he knows everything – that clearly points to a political career.” As a future voter and a working class citizen, I demand that our current MLA either start working for his money and educate himself on issues that concern youth, or step down and give the job to a more capable person.

Karlie Banville,

Invermere