As the father of a young child, public education is among my greatest concerns. I want my daughter to receive the best possible education from the best possible teachers in the safest possible environment.

That's not entirely possible right now. Unfortunately, for years, Utah has lagged behind much of the nation in per-pupil spending and teacher compensation, two of the most critical areas of public education.

If the Legislature backs Huntsman's budget proposal, which includes $3.4 billion for public education, our children — including my daughter — will face better odds.

As part of his $10.7 billion plan, the governor earmarked $153.7 million — an increase of 7 percent — for per-student spending and a $25 million, one-time bonus for teachers.

Huntsman also allocated $28.7 million to reduce student-to-adult ratios in kindergarten to third-grade classrooms to 20 to 1.

Does Huntsman's budget proposal solve all of Utah's problems? Absolutely not.

But Huntsman's plan is a tremendous step in the right direction, and I urge legislators to work with the governor to continue to support our public education system.

Our young people are our future. I want that future to be a bright one.