To the editor:
When shopping for shoes, one size doesn’t fit all. Both kids and adults need choices for the best style and fit. Personally, I shop locally, seeking out a knowledgeable salesperson and take the time to slip on several pair.
All USD 112 kids and adults need choice; school choice. Central Plains-Claflin (CP) isn’t the only local school choice. If CP is the best choice, then sell it. Five BOE members don’t appear to have done this well, and continue to force their choice upon Wilson customers.
Slow down, it’s important to get this right. School shopping, just like shoe shopping, shouldn’t be rushed or forced. Reasonably, the BOE should take more time planning for this transitional “sale” of services. They can still extend another year of funding for Wilson, as patrons and representatives from the state have requested. Wilson’s not trying to kick the shoe down the road. Because of poor marketing, Wilson’s feet, along with their FTE state “shoe” funding, are choosing to walk in a different direction. CP BOE’s can step up their game or allow time for other local school districts to sell their product.
One size doesn’t fit all, but matching pairs make sense. Matching serves should be provided on both ends of the district. Bussing, staffing, and other burdens, should be equalized as much as possible, but are not. The unsympathetic BOE has not chosen to walk in their customers’ shoes; not a strategy that’s in their best interest. Past and present student loss will add up to over 100 students. What have past and present proposed school closures done for 112’s business reputation? I believe it will harm 112’s reputation even more. Both markets, shoe and school choice are competitive.
In the State of Kansas, if school customers don’t accept a BOE’s school closure vote, a “Petition for Disorganization” is a valid legal option. Notice of this Disorganization was delivered to the 112 BOE on Friday, April 21st. A special citizen’s election will be called in May, if needed. A majority of 112 school district citizens’ favorable vote, would trigger mediation by the Kansas State BOE for a more desirable solution, authorizing the KSBOE to dissolve district 112 and reassign students. Wilson welcomes their open-minded intervention. If the 112 school district wants to stay in the school choice competition, they should listen and work to satisfy the Wilson customers, re-evaluating their next step carefully.
If the shoe fit, Wilson may have worn it. Now, 112 BOE either accepts their offer or the petition will be filed. Disorganization of District 112 will proceed to a vote by district patrons, which does affect USD 112 residents in five counties. If they don’t provide a palatable answer quickly, Wilson’s done doing business. Let the other shoe drop where it may!
Roberta Meier
Sylvan Grove
