LETTERS: JACKSON SCHOOLS NEED PLANS FOR ALL

To the editor:

As one of the 11 individuals who attended a recent Jackson Board of Education meeting, let me shed some light on the group in attendance.

First, let me express that all who were present desire a fine school for the Jackson district.

Second, opinions were voiced that were intended to assist the board in how the bond and levy issues might best succeed. This is hardly being against the issue.

Third, these people have an interest in quality education for a reasonable cost. These people are intelligent and support the schools. They have good ideas and desire to contribute to what will best work for the district. They want to work with the administration and board.

When a person becomes a school board member, it is my firm belief that he is first and foremost a public servant. School board members are to represent the people of the district. They are the tie that should bind the school and public together for the betterment of all.

The public has the obligation to give the school officials and board a chance to provide for the best possible school that is available at any given time. Both groups have to work in trust of each others.

A bond issue or levy issue should not be a contest to see which side can win.

We in the Jackson school system feel we have a fine even great school system. This has happened because the people throughout the entire district have worked hard to accomplish the best.

Jackson has been a wonderful school district for many years, and I trust it will continue to be so.

It's time to stop making this a contest of who is right and put together an educational design that has representation from all the people.

By the way, I am 61 1/2 years old, a 1956 Jackson High School grad, and my wife, Kathie, and I have a daughter who will be a junior at JHS this next school year.

JIM WOELTJE

Jackson, Mo.