Community Corner
Politics in the School District
In a letter to the editor, Mehlville resident Brit Rose wonders why politics are so involved in the Mehlville School District.
I have often asked myself, “Why is everything so political in the Mehlville School District?"
My name is Gary “Brit” Rose and I am a former candidate that ran for the school board in 2009. I am currently active in my daughters’ schools and enjoy participating. During my campaign, I shared with others that I do not like to bring local politics into the school district. Decisions in the district should be made that will benefit our students and staff to the best interest.
Since my daughters have attended district schools, I haven’t seen anything accomplished when former and current board members, local politicians and active Democrat and Republican committee members write to the editor in The Call.
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In the past, whenever there is a bond or a tax increase on the ballot, they have a negative response on the issue and usually, it involves attacking the person or persons that write to the editor. What we don’t realize is that some of our students read The Call as well. What kind of message are we sending to our students? Enough is enough. Stop being so political. Be more positive and let’s do what is right and make good decisions.
I once was told that running in the Mehlville School District is like running for mayor. Really? That’s ridiculous. Sometimes to get things passed we need to sacrifice for our kids, even during tough times.
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Just remember this: our kids are our future and we need to see new and improved technologies, buildings and equipment to help our students move forward in their education. I know that at least two schools right now are overcrowded, and that is not good for our kids.
Also, I wanted to add that there have been many times parents have been to school board meetings and share some very good ideas. It just seems like the board doesn’t listen. The board needs to start listening to parents' concerns and act on them soon as possible. I’d like to end with this statement: Let’s do what’s right for our students and not be so political. Let’s make some good education decisions and get what our students deserve: a good school board that cares.