Working to fulfill human needs
On behalf of the Groveport Madison Schools and Go Groveport, thank you to everyone who attended the Human Needs Summit Phase 1 meeting on Feb. 26. What a fantastic response!
As we mentioned at the meeting, this is a four phase project. We are now ready to move forward with the next step, Phase II, creating the plan on March 18 from 6:30-8 p.m. in the Groveport Madison Schools Administration Offices, 5940 Clyde Moore Drive in Groveport.
We look forward to working together on the next phase in harmony towards meeting the human needs of our community.
Also, thank you to all the "Angels" who participated in the 2007 Groveport Madison Adopt-A-Family!
Christine Boucher, executive director
Go Groveport
Place value on education
Before the March 4 primary vote I read with great interest the reasons why people should not back school issues. There seems to be three reoccurring thoughts.
1. Administrations and school boards spend money foolishly.
I’m sure there are items in a budget that may seem unnecessary to you, but if you displayed your own home budget to the public the same may be said of you. As much scrutiny is given to a school’s finances with limited funding, mandated testing, programs required by state and federal agencies, and by the district’s constituents, I really don’t believe there can be that much frivolity. However, if you can name and point out each board member, superintendent, three teachers, and have attended six meetings in a year, I congratulate you and say you have a firm grasp on the foolishness.
2. Teachers salaries are way too high.
Good teachers are hard to come by and those committed to their profession are even rarer. I know most teachers’ days do not end with the last bell. Preparation for the next day’s classes, materials to be gathered, parent conferences, meetings, grading of papers to name a few are on their agenda.
Continuing education to keep current takes time and money. And let’s not forget dealing with countless students, some who want to learn, and others that are there waiting to drop out and soon as they are of age. Violence, not only between the students they must monitor, but maybe against them. Dealing with administration, parents, and students are constant pressures they face daily and to me they earn every penny.
3. Extracurricular activities are not mandated and should be paid strictly by those participating.
As one who participated in these activities I look back to the lessons I learned that have lasted far into life. Responsibility, to carry out my job for success not only for me, but others. Respect, for my opponent, teammates, coaches, and community. Selflessness, we instead of me. To show humility in winning and grace in defeat. Mental toughness. Self-esteem. These are just a few.
To pay forward is always a hard thing to accomplish. I realize there are those on fixed incomes, unemployed, and going through tough times that don’t have the resources to vote yes, but if you you did, would you? Please make your decision based on what you have learned through participation in your school’s meetings and their thought process on putting the levy on the ballot, not hearsay.
The value we place on education today is the lesson those now in school learn for the future.
Duane Ramsey
Groveport
