Do not let feelings influence vote

There appears to be confusion about the Cedar Rapids Community School District's Physical Plant and Equipment Levy, or PPEL, vote on Sept. 9.

The vote is about current and future maintenance needs, transportation needs and the safety of our students and teachers. Feelings and past decisions should have no part of this vote.

This vote is not about how you feel about the school board or the way they conduct meetings. This vote is not about how you feel about the superintendent and his policies. This vote is not about the Educational Leadership and Support Center or how the district got into this position. This vote is not about the lack of transparency with the way the administration and school board runs the district.

If you are unhappy about something in the school district, go to school board meetings and let them know. Send the school board an email or letter and demand they publish your communications so the community knows your position. More communications with the school board and the administration is required for changes to take place.

Everyone has responsibilities with the vote. First, exercise your right to vote. If you don't vote, don't complain later. Next, demand full transparency from the start to the end of the process. The school board represents the community. The superintendent is hired and reports to the school board. The community needs to make sure the school board knows how we feel, but not at the expense of the children.

Lawrence Wenclawski

Cedar Rapids