If you're not part of the solution, you are part of the problem.

There is probably no title more likely to have driven off a reader. Thank you for your time and attention.

The Problem:

Children will grow into adults. If we have a preference between the kinds of adults into which they will grow; we need to involve ourselves in that growth.

What ever it is that we model; we teach. If we want children to grow to embrace character and honor and courage; we have to teach them what they look like. Character is taught by example; it is taught only by example.

I believe that the parents and community of the 98,000 students in the APS want those students to be taught to embrace a higher standard (than the law). We represent that George Washington was a hero and worthy of emulation because he was willing to hold himself honestly accountable to a higher standard of conduct. It is precisely the point of the story of George Washington and the cherry tree.

APS Leaders have abandoned their responsibilities as role models. They have refused repeatedly and on the record to hold themselves accountable to the same standard that they enforce upon students. The code of ethics that the state uses to hold educators accountable, requires that educators must demonstrate through personal example, their commitment to the higher standard of ethical conduct.

The Solution:

People need to show up at the next board meeting. At that meeting they need to express their belief that educational leadership begins with honest accountability to a widely recognized, accepted and respected code of ethics.

Or simply stand in support of those who do.

At some point, when the crowd is large enough, the Leadership of the APS will accept honest accountability; or they will resign. The terms of public service are the prerogative of the public; not of the public servant.


Alternatively, post a comment on this essay. Tell why you won’t come. Please