Please Respect The Right Of Others To Disagree

I started this blog because I, and others, felt that certain issues about I-SS needed to be discussed and that there was information that needed to be shared. Even as Dr. Holliday leaves for Kentucky, I believe that the process needs to continue and I plan on being a part of that process. I am glad that this blog has given people on both sides of these issues a chance to speak out. I thank each of you for your comments. I take the time to read and consider all the comments, even the ones from individuals who do not agree with me. It is only with true discourse that we will find a resolution to these issues. I am asking everyone to please respect the right of each person to state his or her opinion. Do continue to leave your comments, but please do so without criticizing those persons with whom you disagree. I will do the same.

Open-Door Policy

Mr. Klaene's post about the "open door policy" echoes one of the main concerns of the general public. The concern is that our school system has a heavy handed administration. The same has been expressed by many teachers when speaking with those that they trust.

I respect Dr. Holliday's opinion, only when combined with the uncensored input of teachers, parents and students. However, in my opinion, the teacher's input is the most valuable tool of all. Our current educational system seems to be focused on numbers founded by statistics and reports. Some of these reports are possibly falsified to support the results that the administration needs to condone its actions. There are numerous individuals currently looking through material in an effort to prove or disprove the allegations and concerns that have surfaced about ISS operations. I don't understand the referral to a high priced attorney (in Raleigh) to obtain documentation unless that documentation would provide information to support allegations of misconduct.

I understand that being constantly questioned about one's credibility is tiring. However, that is part of the job description of a public official. I'm sure it's not easy being School Superintendant, but that is why it pays $170,000 a year plus other benefits. Being open and forthcoming with answers would speed up the process and go a long way in easing the minds of those with concerns. Referring questions to an attorney only feeds the suspicion that things are not as they should be. It also adds an increased financial burden to current budget deficit.

I encourage all those with information to please come forward and I would hope that the ISS administration would assist in resolving the issues that concern the citizens of Iredell County.

This post was written by Larry Coover.

Meeting Announcement

There will be a public meeting in the Iredell County Library in meeting room B; Thursday, June 18th from 7:00 to 8:45. The purpose of this meeting is to form an organized group to address issues in the Iredell County School system.

This meeting is being organized by citizens, NOT the school system.

Most of us have tried to talk to school personnel about concerns we have for our children's treatment and education setting. Most of us have experienced a negative response and little or no change. Individually we can't make a difference.

An organized group composed of people with similar complaints and concerns CAN BE HEARD.

This group is open to parents, grandparents, and teachers. ANYONE with an interest in the treatment and education of our children is welcome. The system is currently controlled by a handful of people who use intimidation and stall tactics to maintain their position.

It is time for that control to be taken away and returned to us who entrust the future of our children to the school system that is funded by taxes that we pay.

We want to hear any problems that you have had and the concerns that you have tried to address. We have discussed a format and a way of combining everyone's experiences into a combined force that will necessitate change. There is no shortage of people who are overwhelmingly frustrated with the school system and some of its employees. This is your chance to make a difference.

Please pass this around as much as possible since the first meeting date is only a week away!

This post was written by Larry Coover.