Problem or solution?
Don't you just hate those "damned if you do, damned if you don't" situations? Take, for example, the recent ruckus over budget cuts for Marion-Florence USD 408. The school board had the thankless task of deciding how to shave $300,000 from the district's budget.
School board members didn't make the decisions overnight. They considered, pondered, discussed, and probably spent more than a few sleepless nights trying to figure out the best solution to the budget dilemma.
The school board, whom we elected, went so far as to ask for suggestions and input from patrons. That's us. How much feedback did they get?
How many people called a school board member and offered a suggestion or solution? They probably got a few calls. Some might have been positive feedback. Some probably weren't.
Regardless, the cuts had to be made. Contracts were not renewed. Teachers will be leaving the district. Further cuts and suggestions are being discussed.
One such comment that drew public criticism was a recommendation the district no longer try to field its own softball and baseball teams. Superintendent Gerald Henderson, looking at declining enrollment and lack of participation, suggested the district consider building teams with athletes from area school districts.
There are those who think this is an awful idea. Some may be forming a posse to gather up the school board members and whip them for "cutting baseball and softball programs."
But wait a minute
Complaining and grumbling amongst ourselves isn't the way to get things done. We have elected these people. We've given them the authority to make decisions about the school district.
If we didn't vote in the last school board election, shame on us. If we don't let board members know how we feel about issues, we have no room to complain when decisions are made that aren't to our liking. The outcome of every situation will not be good for everyone.
The issue isn't whether we are "for" or "against" baseball and softball. It's whether we give a damn about being part of the problem or part of the solution.
— DONNA BERNHARDT
