Received today on

LCBOE did its homework about consolidation. -jsq

Hey John, I appreciate your summary of the latest meeting on
consolidation. I was on the Chamber sponsored consolidation committee
back in 1993-94. The same folks pushing the effort then are pushing it
now. Back then, nothing about improving education was ever mentioned;
it was all about banking and real estate. Only two educators back then
were on the committee, the two superintendents from the school systems,
and we were never asked our opinions on anything. We were totally ignored.

Yes, we educators were ingored back then and there is no doubt in my
mind that this group pushing for consolidation is ignoring opinions of
educators now. I believe the “dollar bill” mentality of a handful of
folks is the driving force behind this effort, and I don’t mean the tax
payers. Of course, this is just my opinion; I could be wrong.

We have two excellent school systems now in one county. Here is the method
that I propose for a merger: if and when one of our school systems gets
to a point where it cannot provide quality education for it’s students,
let that school system’s school board approach the other school board
and begin discussions on consolidation or some other remedy. Why
should some bank or real estate company be the driving force behind
consolidation. Maybe kids should be put ahead of lining the pockets of a
few business owners. And the most important thing to remember about this
action is: once Valdosta gives up the charter for it’s school system,
it’s over and done with; good or bad, it’s over; Valdosta can never get
it back. Think about that!

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-jsq