Attacks on Trustees Ignorant

(Aired on February 11, 2010)

I certainly don't mind people passionately defending their views on any subject whatsoever. I have never had issue with any person opposing my views on this program.

But when it starts to get personal, that's another story. And, unfortunately, that's what happened earlier this week when parents in the Brocklehurst area turned out to oppose a proposed plan for a middle school in their area. They didn't like the idea - it's their right to state their views. But quite frankly, many of these parents were just ignorant in their comments, suggesting the Board blindsided them, or sabotaged them by bringing up the middle school idea. They demeaned the board in their comments, and tried to suggest that the board had the middle school idea in mind all the time, and had a hidden agenda.

That's a bunch of crap, and those parents should be ashamed of themselves for their attitude and the way they talked the other night. I understand they're upset. I get it. But I don't get making a personal attack on people who are trying to find solutions in the midst of very trying situations.

The School Board is dealing with a serious issue - funding is not enough, enrollment is declining. Changes have to be made. Middle schools are becoming more and more popular. Why not try it, especially in an area where it makes sense? To suggest that the Board is picking on Brocklehurst parents by putting a middle school there and nowhere else is just illogical at best, and ignorant at worst. The comments of some parents Tuesday night were just plain hurtful, and to deal with a tough situation by personal attacks doesn't help anyone.

That was a tough night for trustees. They've been diligent in having this brutal series of public meetings so they can meet face to face with the people. It's been very demanding and very very stressful. They could have easily made changes without the kind of public consultation they chose. They should be commended for the way they're trying to deal with the problem, not kicked in the teeth like they were the other night.