District should encourage, develop quality educational programs

After reading Superintendent Dave Benson's column (“An informed decision on enrollment and boundary issues,” Dec. 29), I couldn't help but wonder who he trying to fool. He stated that our children will “continue to receive a quality educational program at every District school.” Despite the fact that he and the school board are considering closing Polk Elementary School, which has managed to get itself off the federal School in Need of Assistance (SINA). How is closing a successful school showing that our district promotes, encourages and develops quality educational programs?

If the Cedar Rapids School District was a business, it would quickly find itself bankrupt and putting up “closed for business” signs. No wonder there are students going to other districts or other educational opportunities like home schooling.

If the district is truly interested in saving money as well as the best interests and welfare of the students, it would realize that successful, responsible students lead to involved, responsible and hardworking citizens. These schools serve all students, despite their parents' income or type of job, and Polk is an example of when the system works - for everyone.

What should be looked at is how Polk and its talented staff have accomplished this, how it can be carried over to other schools and continue the success throughout the district. Maybe then I would believe that “a quality educational program at every District school” is possible.

Randy Nading

Cedar Rapids