voiceofreason
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Now that I've got your attention ... I know some of you (and especially posters on the other forum) are endlessly fascinated by Rush's alleged "secret family" and Suzy Baker's admittedly impressive boobs. If that's your interest, well, go to it. Far be it from me to abridge anyone's free speech rights. But know that you're only contributing to the distraction the sensational nature of these stories provides from the real issues. Let's not let ourselves get sucked into the sensationalism of the allegations and counter-allegations, and miss dealing with the actual problem here -- that's what's got us in this situation to begin with. Nothing will be resolved until we address the lack of communication, trust, and leadership that lies at the heart of this matter. Replacing Richard and Rush -- while it may be justified and satisfying to some -- will not, by itself, solve anything. And, by all means, let's keep some perspective here. There is much that is good and right at Hoover High. The vast majority of people working here are ethical and decent and do their jobs in a highly professional and competent manner. Even if all of the allegations prove to be true, they involve only a small handful of people (although admittedly some with the power to affect many others). Let's not forget the many positives, but let's also not use it as an excuse not to acknowledge the elephant in the room and take constructive action to address the real problems that exist. So, how do we address the real problems? Here, in my opinion, is a plan of action: The first step has already been taken -- we have a new head principal, someone from outside the system, clearly not implicated in any of our current alleged grade fixing, extramarital activities, or cover up conspiracies. What Ken Jarnagin does and says in the first few days of the new school year will make or break the school year for us. (Not to put any pressure on the poor guy ...) He must acknowledge the events of this summer, not diminishing their negative effect, while remaining impartial and re-focusing us on what's best for our students. He must show through every word and action that his primary interest is in doing what's best for the school and the students. And he must demonstrate that he's open-minded and fair to everyone, regardless of who they are and what has been alleged. We need to walk out of that first faculty meeting of the year, regardless of our opinions on or degree of involvement in the public issues, all of us feeling: "It's going to be okay. We can handle this. Let's get back to work." The second element necessary to resolve this issue involves you. We are counting on you, the parents and community of Hoover, to provide us, through the power of an informed vote, with the leaders who will support us in educating your children. Don't forget us when the newspaper is no longer splashed with attention-grabbing headlines about Hoover City Schools. Your voice has more power than you know, even though it may not be readily apparent. Get involved, speak out, and cast your votes wisely. Those who are in power for the wrong reasons count on your apathy and cynicism to stay there and pursue their own agendas. And, finally, the third element of a recovery plan is up to us, the faculty and staff (including administrators) of Hoover High. We must be willing to put aside our petty differences, suspend judgment, turn a deaf ear to unsubstantiated gossip, and work together for the betterment of our school and the best interests of our students. At the end of last school year, one of our colleagues reminded us: "Change is inevitable; progress is optional." Let's choose progress. Together -- administration, faculty and community -- we can make it happen.
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