R-E-S-P-E-C-T

Disagreements between members of the taxpaying public and entities which utilize tax money can easily cause tension to surface. When it does, how the stress is handled can make a difference not only in the issue's outcome but in the mindsets of those watching.

As was reported in last week's Comet, a public meeting was held May 24 at Camden Elementary School. Delphi Community School Corporation Superintendent Ralph Walker said he called the meeting to clear up misconceptions and provide detailed information regarding re-alignment of the district's elementary schools.

Many patrons who attended the meeting seemed less concerned with learning more of the school board's current plans and more with how the re-alignment decision could be reversed and replaced with a different plan.

In and of itself, there was nothing inherently wrong with the public taking the opportunity to let the school board know the plan was not well-received. It's not new information that re-alignment is not favored by all, and understandable that some minds won't be changed.

However, the manner in which public opinion was conveyed was highly questionable. Moreover, responses by the board were less than appropriate.

During the course of the two hour meeting, at least two allegations were made by certain residents that the board performed illegal acts during the re-alignment process. Board members staunchly denied the accusations. So staunchly, in fact, that one board member loudly demanded that the riled crowd "shut up" and let him finish his explanation.

Also, information provided by both patrons and school representatives during the meeting regarding comments by another board member were not accurate.

Unfortunately, adults who said they represent the interests of students on both community and educational levels did not treat each other with respect during talks.

The point the Comet would like to make is that no matter what situation arises between the people of Carroll County, respect should be of utmost importance in all cases.

Children keep a watchful eye on many things, especially behavior. A great deal of what they learn in life will come through watching and listening.

How can we as parents or school officials expect positive changes to take place in students' lives and our communities if we treat each other so poorly when we try to solve problems?

Education is a broad-based word. It affects many aspects of peoples' lives both young and old. Whether right or wrong, a decision has been made and a plan put in motion with the intent of helping all students perform as well as possible. No matter what stance we take, we should always be mindful that we are being watched by the children.

What we do and say today affects how this community, county, nation and world works tomorrow. It should be paramount to us to attack issues, not people.