LETTERS: RESIDENT RESPONDS TO SCHOOL BOARD INFIGHTING

To the editor:

Presumably, the members of the Cape Girardeau Board of Education understand that they were elected by the voters to serve as public servants. We who voted them into office have the right to expect thorough and thoughtful service to our community, particularly to our children.

Further we should have the privilege of knowing exactly what is going on in our district in order to be a well-informed citizenry.

All board members have first amendment rights of free speech; there is no "gag rule." There is nothing in the Missouri Sunshine Law that COMPELS board members to discuss personnel issued in closed session; the law merely ALLOWS this to happen.

Anyone interested in studying the Missouri Sunshine Law booklet may obtain a copy by calling the Missouri Attorney General's office (314-751-3321).

The progressively worsening in-house fighting which is currently under way within our board is a sad state of affairs. Please let go of this and start anew.

Catherine Otto

Cape Girardeau