Editor, The Smithfield Times:

Memories. Past experiences. History. They are things that shape who we are. 

From the moment we get our first breath, we evolve into capable and productive members of society through our personal experiences as we all navigate this life, trying to leave the world a better place than before. We are to forgive each other and give people the benefit of the doubt.

But let us not forget: Two years ago on kindergarten iPads we had videos of cartoon books explaining sexual orientation. Two years ago we had no school resource officers. Two years ago we had biased apps on elementary-issued devices talking about sex, gender, police brutality, violence and more. Two years ago we had no idea that K-12 had books about rape, sex, drugs and more. Now we do. Just knowing is better than not knowing.  

Jason Maresh and Mark Wooster have been key players in protecting our students’ safety and security and making sure parents are involved and notified about the educational curriculum.  They have heard parents and they have made compromises, working with students, teachers and parents to alter, mend and change policies to do so.  

We have a chance to make it even better with the expertise of Brandi Perkins. All of the board members’ backgrounds are unique and will better our children and the relationship between parents and the school system.  

 

Candice Vandebrake

Smithfield