As with our national election, people can become divided. Sadly, this is no different in our district. We have been going through a difficult time lately, but along with difficulty, there can be positive change.

Tuesday night there was a meeting addressing the need to retain Deputy Superintendent Lori Volz. I don’t know Lori personally, but I know she is an asset to us. I wish I could have been part of that discussion, but current board members/spouses and school board candidates/spouses were not welcome. With the talk about the district’s culture, negativity and lack of transparency, a meeting like this would have been a great attempt to have people become united on such important topics. As I applaud the efforts of those trying to persuade Ms.Volz to stay, I would be remiss if I didn’t talk about the amazing teachers in our district. Teachers that give their all, work so hard for and love our children. We have seen many teachers leave, especially this past year. I have not seen anything close to this energy and outpouring of support for them.   

If you are on social media, or have read the local paper lately, you’ve seen the buzz about personal attacks. Sometimes it’s hard to see things one way, and have someone see things totally the opposite. In a perfect world, our varying opinions could lead to valuable discussions. Since my involvement with the calendar issue two years ago, I have been begging for the community to get involved — to educate themselves on the important topics and to make their voices heard. Many have done that through emails to the administration/board and presenting at board meetings. What saddens me is that when the community does just that, it is twisted as “personal attacks,” and they are blamed for causing administration to leave, and board members to not run for re-election. If they voice their valid concerns, they have been critical of everything the district does.  Yet, if you attend a board meeting, you’ve watched as a certain board member is repeatedly attacked, but apparently that is acceptable, because she’s had the guts to not go along with the status quo of the majority of the board.

Sadly, the moral of this story is if you stand up for what you believe in, raise valid questions and concerns or don’t agree with administration or the school board, you will be accused of causing problems. I thought the administration and the board worked for the community, that it was their job to value each person’s concerns, questions and respectful criticisms.

I urge you to read my post, not as an attack, but as my heartfelt concern. I write it as a plea for our community to come together and to heal. Go to the polls on Tuesday having educated yourself to the best of your ability. Go with the facts, and then vote your heart.  I honestly believe that the best days of District 241 are ahead of us.

Sonjia Hil

Albert Lea