Letters

Process sound for new principal

I would like to offer three points in response to Linda Clarke’s letter on May 10, “University principal chosen poorly.”

The district provided ample opportunity for community input. At two well-advertised open forums, community members were invited to learn about the principal selection process and provide written input to district leaders. At the final event on April 16, participants were able to actually meet and question the two finalists. Either of these two events would have been a much more strategic time for Ms. Clarke to offer her idea of prioritizing previous district experience over other qualifications.

University High School deserves the best. As a large, comprehensive high school, University warrants a nationwide talent search. Inviting such competition only encourages higher standards and achievement from our own district educators. After all, our graduates will face this level of competition in the free-market society that they will enter. Why should our professional staff operate at a lower standard?

The process worked and our future is bright. I participated in both of the public events and served as the parent representative on the interview committee. As an informed participant, I applaud Superintendent Ben Small for his high standards, thorough and transparent selection process and the bright future he is helping to shape for the University High School community. I also want to welcome Mr. Robbins as our new principal. He is highly qualified and brings an exciting mix of experience, 21st century skills and a vision to our school.

Shannan Egbert Skidmore

Spokane

Street work good; now focus on river

I wish to compliment our Spokane Valley city “Fathers and Mothers” for choosing to go ahead with the street work on Broadway Avenue last fall. Broadway is now much safer and more pleasant to drive on, with the center turn lane and clearly marked lanes to accommodate our bike riders.

I hope the council will carry through in their wisdom by protecting our special waterway, the Spokane River, from being cluttered with docks and other encroachments. This valuable asset should be sheltered for all of our citizens now and into the future, not made available to a privileged few who can afford to build a home adjacent to the river.

Because the river and our aquifer, our drinking water, exchange water at various points along the river, it is also important to consider sources of pollutants along the shores of our river.

We hope those who will be making decisions regarding the shorelines will do the right thing. Consider all of us who treasure our river.

Darlene Turner

Spokane Valley