Taking this to the next level...

I have been thinking a lot about things since last night's picketing and board meeting. I was not able to stay for the board meeting but a friend who was there mentioned that it seemed to him that both the board and the teachers have valid points and appear to each be stuck on their own side of the mountain (my words, not my friend.) I know a bit about that posture. I used to live with someone who insisted that his mountain was the only place to live and he never really listened to what was going on, on my side of the world. It made for some pretty tough going when problems arose. Ultimately, we separated and I guess that solved the problem...for that relationship anyway. I guess we could all take that stance...and look for other jobs...if there are any to be had...and what is the guarantee that in other districts things would be any better?
Don't get me wrong here...I believe that the teachers are willing to move off of their mountain...we have in the past and probably would again...but...to solve any problem it takes real resolve and movement on both sides and it doesn't appear that that is going to happen any time soon.

So...how do we get through this? More importantly, how do we solve the problem? First, I think we really need to listen to each other...really listen to the concerns presented by both sides. There is validity in both sides. Acknowledge that. Next, we need to address the problem at its root cause. Is this really about money? About MESSA? About Parker? Oh yes...I truly believe that part of this issue is about Parker...and the fact that after next year, the expectation is that two high schools will be up and running. How can that possibly happen with no money to operate both at the same time?

Additionally, and really what is at the very root of all of this...is the lack of support (read $) from the state. We are not the only district in this mess...look around folks. There is a real problem with the way we fund education in this state. We need to take this to the state level. By that I mean, get connected with other districts who are fighting this same type of battle and hearing the same things we have heard...no money, no money, no money. Cuts, cuts, cuts. Let's go to the Governor! Let's do another march at the capital! After all...if the funding of education was fair in this state, would Howell Public Schools (the growing district that it still is) be in this mess? I think not...

What do you think?