"It Takes a Village"

By Jim B. Logsdon

Including Parents and the Community in Educational Decision Making

However, over the recent past I've observed an unwillingness on the part of the present board to fully engage the opinions and observations of some parents and community members. At a recent board retreat community members were initially not allowed to question or comment on agenda items during or after board discussion. Superintendent Nelson's recent resignation was kept a secret by the board for five days, even though he had only asked for one day in order to tell staff.There has been no public input into the procedure and selection of a new superintendent.

If I'm elected to the board of trustees, I'd strive to welcome as much parent and community involvement as possible into the deliberations and actions of the board. I find no good reason not to welcome as much public participation as possible. The public schools are just that, public!