Big Brother Knows Best

I’ve received a lot of Email these past two weeks regarding the new vocal music teacher. Actually they were about the old vocal music teacher. He filled in this last year as a long term sub. According to my spies, he apparently built the vocal music program back to levels not seen in years. I heard comments like “the spring musical rocked!” and “a position he has already filled admirably”.

Before I go on I want to make it clear that I have no reason to doubt the new teacher’s credentials or abilities. In fact it is just the opposite. His resume looks impressive. And just to be clear, the board traditionally only hires two people- the superintendent and treasurer. The superintendent is responsible for the remaining employment issues. The board can make its own appointment to positions with a majority vote, but it is rare and in reality you should have faith that the administrative team is doing the right thing.

So why did I move to table the hire? First of all I knew it didn’t stand a chance, but I had to try. You see several things occurred before and during the meeting that made me take a step back and remind myself what this job is all about. I was warned several times that the meeting would most likely be attended by angry parents. While walking to the meeting I was warned by the board president to not ask questions of those that wish to speak. If that doesn’t raise a red flag I don’t know what would. Why shouldn’t I ask questions of those who support us not only financially but with their time and attendance in our programs? I know what our policy says regarding public participation, but it’s a bad policy that needs changed.

It was most embarrassing to watch the board president converse with the treasurer and roll her eyes during the public comments. This was my second red flag. Afterward, I received the following Email that was addressed to the board president:

“Barb
When you get a second and you are not being condescending and rude to citizens attending board meetings, please read the following letter addressed to the parents of the acapella and M&M's choirs. Please note that actions taken by the board of education and the Cuyahoga Falls City Schools DOES IMPACT OTHER PEOPLES LIVES.”

The vocal music teacher of yesteryear had something to say and in her three allotted minutes spoke volumes. It seems last years sub was a former student and CFHS alumni. Getting this position was his dream. (I read longevity into that comment) The sub recruited 30 new students to the program and gave new breath to a program that was by most accounts, struggling to stay alive.

The respect and gratitude shown for the sub resonated in the room. I then recalled a few years back when parents of a certain elementary school were involved in the hiring process of their new principal. That was red flag three. This district and board continue to call on the community for involvement, yet when involvement happens it’s met with this attitude? It’s at this point that I decided to move to table and attempt to have further discussion regarding the hiring. The motion died for lack of a second.

I thought elected representatives were supposed to represent the people. I regret that I had to be a part of an experience for many teens that will be everlasting. Last Wednesday was a perfect example of why people generally don’t get involved with their schools. It seems it’s a waste of time and energy. The Falls News reported the general sentiments of the meeting. But they left out one detail. The kids that hung the sign had a little more to say than was printed. The sign they hung also said “This board is a joke” I’m sorry they were left with that impression but I take heart in knowing that maybe the frustration they feel today will provide inspiration to do something about it.

When in Rome

I had an interesting conversation this week. It was regarding my language. Not English, but slang. Or how about street talk vs. office. We all do it. There are things we say at home with friends that we wouldn’t say to our boss. But…

What about profanity? If I use “bad” words, does that make me less of a board member? Have I somehow worked less or researched less or went to fewer meetings as a result of my bad words? I don’t think so. Personally, I find bad grammar and poor spelling much more offensive than profanity.

Anyone that knows me knows I have uttered a cuss word or two. But I have a general rule of thumb. I don’t do it ‘til you do. So if you use profanity in my company, I will most likely return the favor. I know when and where profanity is not acceptable.

Now back to who we should not cuss in front of. The number one people are your own parents and grandparents. Even if they themselves cuss like truckers, you never cuss in front of them. Number two on the list is your boss and/or clients. Number three would be clergy. Number four would be anyone in an official capacity- like law enforcement, the President, etc. Number five is small children. I’m sure you have a few of your own, but that is my list.

The rest is open game. To some I have vices, to others I am human. But despite what anyone thinks, I know what my standards are as a board member. And please don’t throw the ethics argument at me. Ethics are not something that is written in stone. Ethics are a personal set of morals and standards held by an individual. Ethics in the legal sense generally involve breaking the law, not profanity.

I want the best for all children. But just like in my own home, there are limited resources. When money is thin, you make do with what you have. I also know that there are equity problems that need addressed, but continue to be ignored. The academic issues will not go away until equity is addressed. And raising academics is what it’s all about isn’t it? I didn’t run for office and make the promise that I would clean up my language.