Billy C

Hope all is well. I probably should not respond to this issue but I want to speak up because I think it’s needed. First I will say that our civic organizations need folks, who elected or appointed, desire to serve! They serve a greater cause and greater community not just their own desires or even always exactly the desires of those that may have appointed or voted them in! I would be fervently be against anyone, elected or appointed, that would serve on our school board for some political or personal gain. We don’t have time for that! I know elected boards in other states that are no more effective than we are in their collective efforts. As an appointed Board member, I still believe that the citizens of Norfolk have the same opportunity to weigh in our what happens in our schools. My cellphone number and personal email are published on the schools website. I spoke last night at the Lindenwood/Baraud Park civic league. Other board members have done the same with other civic organizations.I’ve been cornered by frustrated parents and even teachers….sincerely, it’s all good because that’s what I get $100 per month for a a board member. Bottomline to me is that it may not make much difference, elected or appointed. Servant leadership is the key! As I was told by one of my many “mothers” in community, “serve and serve well.”

I wish folks would take the time to come out and see some of the discussions and advocacy that we do for all of our kids. We do not operate in some self selected vacuum. I believe we are responsive to those that choose to interact with us. We fervently seek to hold ourselves, our administration, teachers and students accountable.(This is where the solutions to our complex issues lie – in all of us) Every school system in our country is challenged with similar challenges today. So I probably said enough and could go on. I wish folks seek to interact more with the organizations that they are most concerned with vice standing afar and throwing rocks (thoug they have a right to do so). Thats why I don’t mind getting the numerous emails or calls from parents at night because elected, appointed or whatever, we are public and servant leaders. Thanks for the opportunity to comment here. Take care.

Billy Cook
589-4650 :0)

Billy Cook