A Lesson in School Board Transparency

Wash and Repeat: The Board’s Favorite Dance Move

So, once again, folks, we find ourselves being told by the powers that be: “Show up and speak your mind!”—only to be hit with the classic Wash, Repeat, Deflect maneuver when we actually take the time to show up, scramble for babysitters, and rearrange our lives. Sound familiar? Of course it does. We’re supposed to email the board, right? Or better yet, show up in person and make a statement—only for them to say, “Well, not enough people have emailed, so it’s probably not a real issue.” I see the vital importance of the community’s role in… being politely ignored.

Democracy in Action… With Earplugs

Apparently, when a parent or concerned citizen raises their voice in objection, it’s not democracy—it’s vitriol. Isn’t it just adorable when the very people in charge of the teachers who are teaching our kids about civic engagement label community involvement as a nuisance? We should be applauding them for this revolutionary new teaching method: turning democracy into a one-way mirror where only they can see through, while the rest of us are left shouting into the void. Classic.

The “We Appreciate Your Email” Gambit

Ah, the art of the well-crafted response:

“Thank you for your email. We’ve read it but, as you know, we don’t actually respond to emails of this nature. We appreciate your commitment to the school community!”

Translation? They appreciate that you’ve wasted your time reaching out through the proper channels, so they can proceed with business as usual. It’s almost like a secret handshake—but instead of being let into the club, you just get a patronizing pat on the head and a boot out the door. But hey, at least you tried! That’s democracy in action, folks.

Civility or Silencing?

It’s not vitriol, it’s frustration. Why can’t concerned parents voice their opinions without being categorized as rabble-rousers? The truth is, they don’t mind you speaking—just as long as you keep quiet about it. That’s where the magic lies. The illusion of participation without the risk of disruption. Show up, speak up, and watch them “appreciate your concerns” all the way to the parking lot. After all, who doesn’t love a good democracy exercise when no one’s actually listening?