The Knit Kit :

I have been following a story about the budget crisis in the school system in the Shetland Islands, home to a lot of the fair isle knitting traditions. Like everyone else world-wide, this community is faced with budget cuts and hard decisions. About two weeks ago, the decision was made to cut the funding for teaching the tradional knitting in the schools. Here in the US, we have not had that sort of class for several decades (I think? - it's been a long time since I was in school!). But there, its not only a tradition, its part of their economy, their culture, and their future. Giving children the tools and knowledge that they need in this changing world is essential, and I understand the hard decisions in trying to balance budget and educational needs. But, it seems to me that the knitting world needs to help this situation. What are your thoughts?