*This is longer than a letter to the editor and is probably more suitable for a commentary. Please e-mail me the edited copy you plan on printing BEFORE it is printed. Thank You! If you have any questions/comments just call me.

To the Author,
I completely agree with you that the legislation “Closed Class Passes” is only a “small stone out of a mountain of a problem.” The student-teacher ratio at Western is quickly becoming un-proportional at alarming rates. However, while the Student Government Association provides wonderful opportunity for Western students, our influence is some what limited. (IE: The professor evaluation struggle.) I can’t very well propose a legislation demanding the University hire a multitude of new professors.
Therefore, we must work small and grow large. It was never insinuated that the legislation would be the answer of the student-teacher ratio; nevertheless, it will manage to alleviate some restrictions placed on students. By chipping away at the growing dilemma we are emphasizing the shortage of professors at Western and the student’s concern. You quoted: “some professors allow students into their closed classes.” I pleaded with six different professors before this spring semester and none were “allowed by the department” to enroll an extra student. (This includes an internet professor.) Therefore, I don’t believe the problem has enough “solutions that are available.” No, the legislation is not a massive milestone that will pave the way to a better student-teacher ratio, but it is a start.
Other than the Herald, I have received extensive support from fellow students for the legislation. “I’ve always thought we’ve needed something like [the "Closed Class Pass"], and I’m glad someone has finally addressed the problem,” says senior Heather Scalf. Students who have experienced the university canceling a class at the last minute are grateful for the legislation and the headaches it will assuage in the future.
Finally, I would like to reiterate that all students at Western can and are encouraged to write legislation. A template can be found on the SGA website under the link “Legislation.” It is important as tomorrow’s leaders to be “pro-active” not “re-active.” Instead of reacting to other student’s attempts at solving problems, the SGA encourages all students at Western to step up and address concerns themselves.

Sincerely,
Jeanne Johnson

Jeanne Johnson, SGA Senator and Author of “Closed Class Passes”
270-704-2910
Marion, Kentucky