School board lacks trustworthiness

At every school board meeting I attend, there is a PACE character trait read. They read about honesty, diligence and other honorable endeavors.

This month’s trait is trustworthiness, ironic since so many families are not feeling trust in our schools, administrators or board members. For months now, Bill Johns has repeatedly asked the board and Yes To Kids Committee to open up a dialogue and debate him, so the public can decide on the bond. Since the August meeting it has been repeatedly ignored. Why?

In fact, board member Marci Estrellado emphasized that the board is not required to do so (April 15 meeting). Why would the Board not want the public to hear about an alternative plan that costs closer to $12 million over a $44 million one?

It is the best interests of all stakeholders to openly discuss the merits of both plans, their costs and the long-term tax effects on all stakeholders. Not just because the kids deserve it, but because voters deserve to make a decision based on all the facts. Not just what the board or Yes To Kids wants us to hear.

Trustworthiness starts when all points of view are allowed and all points of view are available for informed decision making. I am voting no.

Alison Probert

Cheney