School boards need scrutiny

Dear Editor: My congratulations to James Miller and his excellent editorial on the school board (Herald, Sept. 27). This combined with the informative article by “Herald Staff” on the school board forum should give people a clear picture of the necessity for change at the school board level.

I was especially struck by the fact that the present school board would rather close schools than have an independent special advisor from the province come in assist them because they feared being fired.

Another issue that came loud and clear was the lack of understanding trustees have on their obligation to communicate with the public when questioned about decisions they have made. Instead, they hide behind the one spokesperson policy and acquiescently allow said spokesperson to remain silent.

This obviously is an excuse to deny transparency and accountability.

My congratulations to the efforts of the team of questioners that worked so research the excellent questions to the candidates and pressed for answers on many issues. I loved the yes-and-no questions. No chance to weasel out.

It also appeared trustees allowed a superintendent of the school board to hold them ransom for outrageous raises at the expense again of voting to close schools.

These forums make abundantly clear the importance of newspapers and journalists in bringing out the truth and keeping democracy healthy. It speaks very loudly of why professional journalism is an important asset in a community. Everyone involved in making these forums a success has my deepest admiration and respect. Elvena Slump

Penticton