This June is the final school year for Osborn Principal, Clarita Zeppie. I was pleased to read Ms. Zeppie's message on the school website, however, in the school year's final Osborn Weekly newsletter she wrote:
Overall, and on the surface, it was a nice letter. However, what strikes me as interesting is the "Thank you to the parents who have never complained" part. Is this as opposed to the parents who had complaints and weren't afraid to raise them? It seems odd to me that in a time when bullying is such a major concern, especially considering the recent hazing news, that the principal would, in her parting farewell letter, praise all those parents who effectively 'didn't get in the way'. Is the assumption here that there was nothing to complain about? Obviously solutions and suggestions are preferred over complaints, but parents can't always be the one to solution every concern they have about the school. So I guess the message to the parents who did raise concerns, the message is "thanks, but no thanks." Aren't we supposed to be role models? Is that really the message we want to perpetuate? Do we want to tell our kids not to make waves? You don't have to look far to find the consequences of not speaking up. What about thanking everyone who worked to improve our children's collaborative experience? Do we want to suggest that there is some preference to those who keep their mouths shut, over those that feel free to raise their concerns, and make criticism where they feel its necessary?
... Thank you to the parents who have never complained, who have smiled in the halls and outside, who have supported the traffic managers and the lunch room staff. Thank you to the parents who have supported our teachers efforts, trusted their judgement and written little notes or emails of recognition. Thank you to the parents who came too our special events, like Girls Night and Boys Night, who have chaperoned trips, helped with lunch, and sent little treats to our teachers and me. You have helped to make Osborn School the fine school that it is, and you serve as role models to all the parents to come. ...
I've had my differences with with Ms. Zeppie. I've also found many reasons to appreciate her, and the often difficult position she's in. Throughout the years I've always tried to give her the benefit of the doubt. Its a shame that her parting words leave such a bitter taste. I only hope that isn't the message we see from Osborn's new principal.
