PTA moms and dads rallied, teachers put on their walking shoes, and on Nov. 6 the citizens of Utah voted that measure down by the tens of thousands. Government of the people, by the people and for the people is certainly alive and well in Utah.

Unfortunately, some voucher proponents have vowed to bring that measure back during the next legislative session in January. That would be a huge mistake. Inscribed on the west wall of the House chambers, just above the clock and the Gold Seal of the House of Representatives, are the words "Vox Populi," meaning "voice of the people."

Those words serve as a constant reminder to legislators that they are to do the will of the people. The people have now spoken resoundingly and their voice should be treated with the utmost respect. Now is the time to move forward and not look back.

Voucher advocates should direct their efforts toward promoting reforms in our public schools, such as reducing class sizes, training and hiring more quality teachers and increasing teacher salaries. The legislative session lasts a mere 45 days and debate over vouchers would divert precious time from the critical deliberations necessary to bring about these vital improvements.

The best way to serve all of Utah's children is to strengthen our public schools, ensuring that they have the resources necessary to provide the finest education possible for every student. The best thing voucher proponents and opponents could do would be to set aside their differences and support educational reforms with the same energy and enthusiasm displayed during the campaign.

Bring your ideas to the legislative table. Let's work together to provide the greatest education possible for our children.

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* REP. KAREN MORGAN, D-Cottonwood Heights, is a ranking member on the Public Education Appropriations Committee.