KingLet1

In response to a letter to the editor, I would like to clarify why I spoke during audience communication at a Farmington School Board meeting concerning the recent school closing plans.

I was contacted by a group of school parents that wanted to meet with me to discuss the inevitable changes that were about to take place in their school community. The concern they had centered on one proposal in particular—Option D, which they recognized as being a carbon copy of the “Legacy Initiative” that the Livonia Board of Education imposed on our district several years ago. The moms and dads I spoke with are PTA members and ardent supporters of their district. One of them was also a member of the committee charged with evaluating the different proposals that were being considered. Unfortunately, the committee was not given a chance to weigh in on Option D, the plan that the Farmington BOE passed unanimously, because it was presented after the committee had done its work, recommending the Orchard Lake Option.

The group reached out to me, a Livonia school board trustee, because their board was citing our district as a shining example of what their plan would offer and how its implementation was a howling success. They, however, remembered what actually happened in Livonia and felt the information their central office was regurgitating was blatantly one-sided and misleading. They were keenly aware that even today there are parents, teachers, administrators and several board members who feel the changes have not delivered as promised, and would like to make adjustments. In light of this, they felt they were not being heard, and thought perhaps someone with firsthand knowledge from Livonia might be able to break through the fog of indifference and be heard. 

I was a bit hesitant at first when they asked me to speak before the board, being fully aware my speaking could be misconstrued by the unapprised, and used against me by others who do not appreciate my questioning of the status quo. Remembering the angst the changes caused in Livonia, I felt for the Farmington community. And as a Farmington soccer coach, I knew the plan would also impact my players and their families as well. Knowing that Option D was going to be implemented regardless of the communication from the community or whatever the board professed, I still chose to speak out and attempt to give voice to those who asked me to.

If you heard me speak, you know my comments were respectful albeit in direct contrast with what the board was being told. Better a cruel truth than a comfortable delusion. Judging by the response I received from many of those in attendance, many agreed with me and were appreciative of my effort. I am curious as to why you did not speak to me that evening as so many others did. I am still puzzled as to why the board or administration did not seek out different opinions from others in our district before making such a big decision. I believe an effective board member exhibits intellectual curiosity, an ability to consider other points of view and a willingness to communicate face to face before casting any vote.  I would like to meet with you or anyone else and discuss any questions you or they may have. 

Steve King