It's Not a Choice. It's a Duty

Since my retirement from Fieldcrest in June 2005 I have had the opportunity to visit scores of school districts not only in Illinois but also in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Ohio, New York and Pennsylvania. The majority of these visits were coupled with visiting family and friends and supporting my consulting and writing interests. I had the luxury of meeting teachers, students, administrators, citizens and members of Boards of Education. What I learned impressed me immensely. Without a doubt, these individuals were fiercely loyal to their schools and the children who attended these schools. To be sure, many of these school districts were consolidated or in eastern parlay, "merged" districts. Some comprised of three or more communities with attendance centers in one central location. Impressive? I think not.

Long before Fieldcrest came together in 1992, the district I speak of was part of four (4) other communities. During the 1970s they hit rock bottom. Two schools were closed in two communities. I don't mean grade site reorganization. I mean shuttered. Unlike Fieldcrest, this district gave up a way of life. Regardless if the school was a high school or a middle school, the outcome was the same. There was no other alternative for this district but to move forward. As the parent said, it was the parents' duty to support the children and the quality of education received. Look at it as payback time in a good sense. The district had a good run, but change is inevitable. However, ignoring the reality of this district's predicament was not an option.

Fieldcrest's proud legacy including the former individual districts of Minonk, Toluca and Wenona were not lost on me. The communities oozed pride and accomplishment. Unfortunately, the events of 9-11 and Illinois' and the nation's fiscal climate shattered our Camelot. The Fieldcrest Board of Education's decision to reduce expenditures, lay off teachers and staff, eliminate courses and levy fees was a most difficult decision that was not taken lightly. The only drawback, in my opinion, was the tough choices did not occur sooner. However, now come this November 7th the citizens of Fieldcrest Community Unit District 6 have an opportunity to cement the proud traditions of Fieldcrest far into the future. There is no doubt in my mind that the current Board and Administration are acting in the best interests of the children (as was the former Board) and at the same time being fiscally responsible to the taxpayers.

There is no turning back to the "good ole days". Education is high stakes for any community. Communities that support their schools reap benefits too many to list here. As superintendent Vincent and the Board of Education so aptly pointed out, the passage of the referendum is a win-win situation. You do the math. There is no snake oil, smoke and mirrors, or a handshake behind the barn. The necessity of passing this referendum is as plain as the nose on my face. When you go to the polls this November remember: mediocrity is cheap but excellence costs money. The choice is yours.