MEET THE BAUMANN SCHOOL BUS DRIVERS
SCHOOLS
Temple Shaaray Tefila
April 30 1997
Dear Congregant (with a child in the Bedford School System or a taxpayer to the Bedford School District)
Yesterday a meeting was held at our temple that included the local clergy and Mr. Dick Kraemer Principal of Fox Lane High School. I had invited Mr. Kraemer to speak with us about the present troubling climate in air school system and the implications of the upcoming May 7 School Board election.
After meeting with Mr. Bruce Dennis Superintendent of our school district,. and after participating in a PTA discussion program last month I am very much concerned about some of the recent negative Occurrences in our school distinct and hope that you share my concern I trust that are aware of a major lawsuit that has been brought against the Bedford School System and the challenges that have been made regarding the appropriateness of many aspects of our curriculum.
For many generations we Jews have thrived in the public school system. Not
only do we believe passionately in the value of education but we continue to champion the ideal of separation between private religion and Public educationI believe that that ideal is being challenged in our community in some not so subtle ways
Furthermore I am convinced that the quality of education being
afforded our children is being compromised through the intimidation that Some of our teachers feel.Those of us with children in the school system will appreciate that some of our most thoughtful and Innovative teachers' are the ones being challenged and being suppressed. Many teachers who have instilled in their students a love for reading are now seeking the approval of their principals for books they recommend to students.
Even an acclaimed program such as DARE has come under attack This
program , which is based upon peer influence seeks to dissuade our children from using drugs and alcohol But to some it is viewed as somehow undermining the role of parents So too we there some who claim That sex education and talk of A I D S have no place in our schools as such talk also undermines the authority and role of parents.
Over please please
Very troubling is the knowing that applicants for administrative and teaching positions in our school district have withdrawn their, applications because of the the negative 'climate' surrounding our schools at the present time. Imagine, so many of us moved to this area or built houses in this area because we believed in the excellence of this school system. And now that school system and Its very able leaders are under attack. And yes, there is an "unholy alliance' between those who challenge open education and those who would Impose their religious beliefs and practices upon us.
We believe it to be crucial that we all vote in the upcoming School Board Election on May 7. The challenges- accusations and legal assaults made against our school system have received national attention and what happens here will surely set a tone, if not a precedent, for other communities. We believe that PAUL ALCORN and Dot Fallon are not only the most capable candidates to serve on the Bedford School Board, but that they most represent those educational and social values that are dear to
us.
Please vote and do not leave the future of our community to others.
Allida Stauber, Social Action Chair Rabbi David E. Greenberg