Dear Source:
First of all I must say that I neither saying I am an opponent nor a proponent of Dr. Lynn Spampinato. Now Ms. Jackson has stated that the legislature is displaying behavior that is "uncalled for". Personally I think the legislature is doing what they have always done. Whether we like it or not is a different story.
Let's be real about this, some of us might like to see "one of our own" in that office, but the truth of the matter is, that has been done and not much has changed. There is no guarantee that putting a "foreign agent" will change anything either.
Bottom line is, education period is an expensive business. Educating our children or children anywhere for that matter requires a lot more than just ideas. Yes I know that may be where it starts, but do we as Virgin Islanders have the fortitude, patience and commitment that it will take to see this process through?
It has been mentioned of what the good Dr. has intended to do, so how does she plan to accomplish this task? First off all, proper fiscal management has never be one of the governments strong points. At least not to the benefit of the community; that is just my opinion.
Now all that Dr. Spampinato intends to do will continually be hampered with our present set up, we know this already. There are many things that we are sure of with this, paying employees (not just the teachers, but the cooks, the paraprofessionals, and the janitors and maintenance staff as well) the substandard salaries is unacceptable.
One important point that has not been mentioned is accountability. Too often we just sit in our little corner and complain about what is being done or what is not being done. Shouldn't we hold people accountable? Complaining in small groups accomplishes nothing but a frustrated bunch of island people.
We elected the governor, and he chooses the commissioners, so let's hold him accountable.
Most of us may know what Dr. Spampinato brings to the table, but besides that, is she going to get the support she needs to do what she was chosen to do? Will she give us the results we so desparately seek? That remains to be seen.
Gary Moore
St. Croix
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