Dear Editor,
This letter is addressing concerns regarding recent decisions by the Linn R-2 school board.
The first was the decision changing next year’s school calendar to a four-day week. I’m not questioning justification for this calendar change; I am questioning the decision process. It appears there was minimal input from district patrons...especially parents and staff of St. George School. This decision directly affects St. George in establishing their calendar, but more importantly, bus service providing student transportation. Linn R-2 and St. George share a long-standing history of compatibility. They have a well-established, successful history of “working together” providing an exemplary and well-rounded education for all students at both schools. I believe the decision switching to a four-day week next year without intense efforts including St. George parents and staff was made without that traditional cooperative spirit in mind.
Another concern appears to be “strong arm” tactics by the R-2 superintendent dealing with personnel issues regarding Lorie Winslow, Elementary Principal. Tactics, I believe, not appropriate for any work place and also calling into question the transparency issue between superintendent, school board and district patrons. Because this is a current unfolding personnel issue, I will not discuss specifics. I will propose the superintendent hasn’t provided accurate information to the board regarding Ms. Winslow’s job performance, leading to, in my opinion, unfortunate board decisions. If this has happened with this employee, how many others have been treated the same way? It’s the board’s responsibility to act with utmost responsibility in all areas of school operation. If they receive inaccurate, biased/ “bad” information from the superintendent, they’ll make bad decisions for students and staff. It’s imperative we employ and retain the best possible educators and support staff. This is impossible if they are treated unfairly and disciplined based on personality conflicts with the superintendent instead of documented successful job performance evaluations. These decisions create a stressful, insecure work environment, leading to an inferior and inconsistent school work force. Teachers and staff will seek employment elsewhere to receive appropriate administrative and school board support, based on job performance instead of whether the superintendent “likes” you. A “revolving door” of employees is a disservice to our students. We, as district patrons and tax payers, must not allow it to continue.
Neil Loethen tried to be the “voice of reason” to the board regarding Lorie’s situation...and was ignored. Neil should be commended for his efforts. I’m urging you to become informed of what’s happening in our school. Ask questions, demand answers! Attend board meetings. The next one is Thursday, May 14 at 6:00 p.m. at the elementary building, at which time there will be a public hearing regarding Ms. Winslow’s future employment with the school. Ms. Winslow requested this meeting in an effort for the public to become informed. What a brave and courageous decision on her part! Please plan to attend this meeting.
Sincerely and respectfully submitted,
Carol Branson
Former Linn R-2 School Board Member,
Employee and Future R-2 Grandma
*As of Tuesday May 12th, this subject will now be discussed in closed session.
