Tuesday, September 22, 2009

Some new links

We've added some new links to the side panel of the blog. First, fall elections approach, and two positions are up for election on the Bellingham School Board, positions 4 and 5. As candidates get their web sites up and running, we will add links to their sites. We hope to set up a forum for candidates to shares their views with the public in the near future. Stay tuned ....

New media links are two articles that appeared this month in The Bellingham Herald. First, the announcement that Superintendent Vedra is leaving the district, and Sherrie Brown will be acting superintendent. That begins October 1. Hopefully, more change is in the air. Also, stay tuned ....

Second, an article in Sunday's edition lauds new programs in Bellingham schools. It does point out that the expense of these programs was questioned during the budget cutting process. What you can find out by reading closely, and also viewing the reader comments, is how these specialty programs at the elementary level are tearing apart neighborhoods, with parents choosing to move their kids to schools outside their area to either avoid programs, or to take advantage of special programs. Already, 80 families are driving to Wade King Elementary from outside the attendance area. This is not what Bellingham's Comprehensive Plan calls for -- the city values neighborhood schools, to give all kids in every neighborhood equal opportunity, and to strenghthen each neighborhood community.

Again, this is the time to speak up -- we have the opportunity to choose a new school board, a new superintendent, ask the city council to seek a new capital facilities plan and protect our Bellingham values!

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