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Community Corner

Reflections on Dec. 4th School Board Meeting


On Wednesday evening, we, the newly empowered citizens of Baldwin-Whitehall , took a first step in wresting control of the school district from those who put their self-interest above the interests of the taxpayers and student body.  The next step is to restore the long-term health of the school district and the good name of our community.  Whether or not this can be done as the Board is currently constituted is the question.  Mr. Schmotzer with  his protege,  "Kid Rambo",  have deep roots in politics.   Mr. Schmotzer 's  smoke  rises  high,  perhaps to Harrisburg and to a future Governor.  The fact that he had the cajones  to resign from the special assistant position and, in the face of public outrage, to be sworn in to a four year term on the School Board hours later suggests he fully intends to exercise whatever influence he can over our schools.  If the older members of the board remain in his sphere  of influence the district and community are in for a contentious period  over  the next few years.  If, however, they begin to exercise independent judgement,  and Mr. Schmotzer is marginalized, the worst may be over and the healing process can begin.   Regardless,  legal efforts to reshape the board  may occur.  Given all the damage that has been done, it will take years to rebuild all the tattered relationships and increase transparency.  No more subterfuge!    Our Broad members must avoid conferring, or appearing to confer, unfair personal benefit to themselves, family or friends.   
Personal Note:  Let it be known, that while my floor nomination as a future member of the board was flattering,  I have no such aspirations.  My only interest is do what I can as a citizen and former public educator to ensure all the students of Baldwin-Whitehall regardless of their ability, race, sex, or social standing receive a world class education.

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