Letter to the Editor: Civility, Accountability Must Prevail

The recent escalation of rhetoric, misinformation, allegations and finger-pointing is both divisive and unproductive at a time when cooperative community relations is critical to the future of our children and our community. 

Progress and struggle are often linked, but this does not give license to irresponsible words and actions on the part of some. What is at stake is the future of our children – a reality that is sometimes lost in the noise brought on by personal agendas and attacks.

As community members, we should be exhibiting the positive behaviors that we hope to transmit to our children, namely: respect for our neighbors, attention to facts and details, and fostering productive dialogue that promotes rather than supplants open discussion.
 
Unfortunately, in today's political climate it has become fashionable to simply make accusations without factual information and while providing no solutions. The use of anonymity coupled with predictions of doom has long been a tactic for those who seek to use fear as a motivator. History has shown us that these kinds of tactics have brought on some of the worst, rather than the best, outcomes in the history of our nation. Along with this, those who ascribe to these tactics are not accountable to the public and usually do not participate in open debate even when forums exist that make such debate possible.

A fundamental question for everyone is "What problems do I observe and what am I doing to solve them in a positive and productive manner?"
 
We must seek to introduce civility and discourse as necessary elements for making collective decisions that benefit the entire community; to model a considerate, yet deliberate, critical thought and decision-making process; to remain mindful of leading by example, as our words and behaviors provide the scaffolding from which our youngsters build dreams, aspire to reach new heights and create their future. What we need is light and not heat in the important debate about the future of our children.
 
As a duly elected Trustee of the 3V Board of Education, I am committed to successful outcomes for all of our children based upon the agreed goals, mission and vision for our district. I am also sworn to be accountable for my actions and decisions while upholding the highest ethical standards of behavior and represent the district with dignity and respect. Our children deserve the very best from each of us. I, too, am a stakeholder in our community and I have volunteered to give my time, energy, expertise and commitment to enabling our school district and community to reach its fullest potential. 

I urge ALL eligible community members to REGISTER to vote if you have not done so already, and cast your VOTE in the upcoming school budget and Board of Education election on Tuesday, May 17, 2011 at your local elementary school. The fate of our children's educational future is in your hands.  

Susanne A. Mendelson, Trustee - Three Village Central School District; current 3V Parent, former 3V Student & Graduate WMHS Class of 1992, 3V Resident since 1982