By Mark Pike
Anderson resident
In a Feb. 6 editorial The Herald Bulletin argues that the Madison County School Alliance (MCSA) is opposed to the recent decision of the Anderson Community Schools board to merge two high schools into one, prompting us to form a new school district.
That’s not an accurate portrayal of MCSA.
We are dissatisfied with ACS graduation rates, the move from smaller neighborhood elementary schools to larger schools with larger classrooms, a demonstrated lack of interest in input from the community and dismal academic results. We are concerned about increased transportation costs and the time children spend on the bus.
We are troubled by a lethal mix of increasing debt, high per pupil spending and poor academic performance. For years the ACS board has been spending more money and getting less in academic performance. Schools in adjacent communities are spending less and achieving significantly better results. Something is wrong with this picture.
We believe more of the same is not good enough — things must change.
We seek schools that are smaller in class size and closer to the neighborhoods where students live so parents can be more involved. We seek graduation rates above the state average along with responsible management of funds. Our goal is for students to have more opportunities in the arts, academics, and athletics. We seek safe and secure schools for all children. We believe these aspirations are shared by parents and families from every racial and economic background.
The Herald Bulletin asserts we are sending the wrong message to youth.
What does MCSA say to students? We can do better and so can you.
This change must start with us; parents, grandparents and neighbors — we must set the pace and tone. We agree with Dr. Chow when he states that parents are obligated to get the best education they can for their children. That is why we are taking the initiative, working together to form a new school district so we can try innovative ideas for a quality education for our sons, our daughters and our grandchildren.
We invite you to join us.
On behalf of the Madison County School Alliance: Troy Abbott, Donna Etchison, Rick Fulaytar, Mark Pike, Gary Price, Timothy Price and Dwayne Smith.
