Some seem to feel that they have evidence that faith-based schools are divisive. They look to other countries in the Middle East or Northern Ireland. However, we should compare apples with apples. Check other provinces in Canada. Six provinces are funding faith-based schools in a variety of ways and doing very well. They certainly are not divisive. The sky has not fallen! Quite the contrary, these independent schools contribute positively to society and produce responsible citizens of Canada.

There are various forms that funding could take. That is what the commission, to be appointed and headed by former premier Bill Davis, will recommend after much study and consultation. In Alberta the schools receive 60 per cent of what the "public" schools receive. In Ontario many independent schools educate for less than publicly-funded schools. I would be quite content with partial funding.

John Tory wishes to bring the schools into the public system thus creating one truly public system where all meet the set criteria and where all children can attend without feeling they need to compromise their faith. For many people their religion is a way of life.

We believe in freedom of religion, freedom of speech, diversity, multiculturalism, and pluralism. In a democracy such as ours, we ought to encourage choice and reflect the changing population. We believe in freedom. Freedom can best be characterized by the absence of coercion or restraint.

I pay taxes that go to the public school. That "public money" is also mine! I really don't understand why all the fuss.

We have choice in everything else in our lives, why not when it comes to picking a school that parents believe is good for their children? Presently, parents can choose a school that has a focus on the arts, sports, sexual orientation, French or one that is grounded in the Catholic faith. Do they have to pay for that privilege? What about Eden, a Christian school in Niagara that operates under the local school board? What about native schools that operate under band councils?

Perhaps there is confusion about the term "religion" or "faith." I understand one's faith or religion to be what a person is deeply committed to. One's world and life view ("weltanschauung") is their religion. Faith is not something you can put on and take off at will. One cannot have a private religion that can be shelved in public and still be true to basic beliefs.

I don't want my children to think Christmas is all about Santa Claus and receiving gifts or that Easter is synonymous with the Easter Bunny. I want my children educated in the context of the faith of their parents. I want them to be able to practice their faith regardless of the setting.

Let's stop the scare tactics, half truths, and fear mongering. There are many leaders, including Premier Dalton McGuinty, who graduated from faith-based schools and are model citizens. Let's not adopt a melting pot but preserve and encourage diversity. We can only have true unity if we recognize and celebrate our differences.

Henry Lise, principal, Orangeville Christian school