On Who Speaks for a School Community

 I recall that at the last Board meeting, there were two issues raised during public testimony about the (now-called) Rising Star Elementary (formerly Van Asselt at AAA building).


One came from school board candidate, Liza Rankin, about the condition of the building on the first day of school.  It was fine to express dismay that this would happen but it seems she decided to make something out it in a north/south way.  (I have a query into the district about why this happened but I can also say that the district is fairly careful to make sure buildings are ready to be used at the start of the school year.)

The other comment came from former SCPTSA president, SebRena Burr.  She said "the community" was not brought in on this name change.

Interestingly, an actual parent from the Rising Star community also testified and said the confusion over having a "old Van Asselt" building and a "new Van Asselt building" made for trying times.  It sounded very much like the current community at Van Asselt was in favor of this change.

Then there is this message from the Rising Star PTA Board via Facebook.

PTA Board Statement Regarding Rising Star's Roof Renovation:

Many people across Seattle have expressed concern about our roof renovation. PTA has done its best to listen to the concerns of staff, parents, and community members and have presented questions and concerns to our principal, vice principal, and principal intern. We feel that the staff and administration have worked out good solutions to our current space constraints and we are confident that our students are safe and well cared for.

We know that working in a construction zone is frustrating. Our parking lot is drastically reduced and many teachers are having to double-up in classrooms. If staff members or parents have concerns or questions about the remodel, we encourage them to reach out to Principal Lam or to email us (vanasseltptaboard@gmail.com). We will preserve commenters’ anonymity if requested.

We thank our broader community for its support. It’s understandable that people want to take immediate action at perceived injustice, however, we are only a week into the school year and want to take time to listen before determining if or what action is needed. We are confident in our ability to advocate for our students and community, and in our ability to determine what our community needs.

If you would like to offer support to our PTA, we welcome volunteers for various school events as well as donations.

 As a former PTSA co-president, I find this quite well-written.  It makes clear that the PTA Board supports what the school has decided to do to get thru this time, that they want to listen and see what might be needed and "their ability to determine what our community needs."

This doesn't mean that PTA is the only voice at any given school but it is a major voice.  I think this very good advice.