Editor, Times-Union: I would like to voice my support for Randy Polston for school board. Other writers have written about his experience as an educator and his dedication to doing what is best for his students. I would just like to add that at this time we need someone on the board who really understands the needs of our students and our teachers.
It is a stressful time especially for teachers. Since the teachers have been left without any power to stand up for themselves, they need someone sympathetic to their cause. I believe Randy is that man. For those of us who have golfed with Randy, we know it is better to be behind him when he tees off. Right now I’m urging you to get behind him as well.
Along the same line, there is another contest that very much will have an impact on our children and teachers. That is the one for state superintendent of public education. Under Tony Bennett, teacher morale has suffered greatly. If you know a teacher you might ask them about this. If you read the article written by Paul Campos a few weeks ago in the paper, you will understand what I’m talking about.
Teachers just want to teach. The joy of teaching has been taken from them. Experienced teachers don’t feel that their experience means anything anymore. Consequently, neither do they, so many good teachers are seeking to retire. Those who can’t are stuck or are seeking employment elsewhere. It’s a sad situation. New teachers are so discouraged that they question their choice. Both groups are staying later and coming in earlier just to keep up. The worst part is that it is just not for lesson plans but for all of the stuff they have to do that has nothing to do with teaching.
One main reason is that Mr. Bennett is trying to run our schools like a business. We can’t let him treat our kids like some product that can just be churned out. We all know that they are warm souls that need the encouragement and guidance of real teachers. Teachers who will lead them to think critical, not just for some meaningless test, and allow them to work using their creativity.
The alternative is Glenda Ritz who, like Randy, has had the experience where she knows and understands the “real” needs of our teachers and students. I would also encourage you to vote for her and for the well being of out public school system.
