A Strong Suggestion for PEA, PASA and the Plainfield BOE

Many years ago, I was a little reluctant to agree with the concept that cowardice was unethical or sinful, holding then to my belief that people are subject to and at the mercy of their fears, in the face of adversity and danger. Well, as I "came into my own" as an advocate of children, I experienced some moments of enlightment that rendered my stance solid and perspective crystal clear.

If we all would just operate with the morally guiding notion that children never ask to be here, but all -- in their own particular ways -- require and deserve our very best effort, the district would likely move in revolutionary ways, finally.

Bravery is often selfless, while refusal to help those less able is NOT the way of honor nor condoned by will of any God, as I understand it.

A "movement," in the form of collaborative, respectful, and sometimes harmonious-sometimes contentious--but generally progressive interaction amongst all advocates, is poised to come about at this moment in time.

The reality of administrative abuses that have run rampant throughout the PPS district for years, leads me to believe some of the silence of PASA members might be borne of GUILT and shame for themselves. If they could get together a few years ago, prior to Gallon's arrival and conspire to MOVE CERTAIN PEA MEMBERS-PARTICULARLY REP'S," (often in retaliatory action) Then some would argue they have gotten what they deserve, as they run and hide and cower in corners, as Gallon seemingly indiscriminately dishes out abuse, himself.

Yet, I applaud Principal Johnson-Tucker, who on Tuesday and on several other occasions has stood strong and spoken up against unscrupulous "back door (or room) deals" and the like. It seems PASA should engage in some meetings of the minds and soul searching and resurface ready to more humanely lead PEA members with a renewed spirit of cooperation and respect--and a pledge of competence.

Meanwhile PEA members should do the same, guided by the notion that professional ethics and performance--not bids for favors from PASA or BOE members--is what truly serves the students' interests. Incompetence cannot be fixed with favoritism or misplaced praise that promotes jealousy, envy or a divisive atmosphere. I think the term "hostile environment" is fitting here, as well. It absolutely does happen. It absolutely MUST END!

I urge PASA and PEA leadership to immediately get together and engage in unifying discussion centered on devising some solid, sound and long-lasting guidelines for collaborative work that will stand the tests of time and tyranny.

Only then can the new BOE more readily sit down with ALL staff leadership and in earnest, accomplish the critical repairs that Plainfield Public School system so desperately needs. Like curriculum, student discipline code, clarification of testing procedures, technology protocols, policy clarifications and improvements, responsible use of available school funds, etc...

If this is that "NEW DAY" for which Gallon's improprieties have helped bring forth public outcry in response to the "SHAMEFUL" media characterization of our district leadership, then we owe it to ourselves to now put down the stones, pick up the tools for reform, and demand that the good doctor find another patient for his practice. For, we require much more "natural" healing methods in our "Queen City."

1.....People