‘Elitist’ label ignores sacrifice

In response to Becky Heacox’s letter (May 12), I don’t consider myself an “elitist” parent, and I resent that implication unless you consider what our family has given up professionally to be present during our children’s critical periods.

We have each chosen to work part time so that we can drive our three children 40 miles a day across the county to make sure they are in the right school that fits their needs.

Thus, one of our children is a third-grader in Jefferson Montessori, and we drive from the North Side morning and afternoon so that she can be part of a program that works best for her.

Many Montessori parents don’t “dream” of having our own building. We want more Montessori programs in more public schools so we can model the success of the program for all of our school-aged children and family members.

We also want the safest locations for all of our schools, off of arterials and onto the quieter neighborhood streets where, twice a day during working hours, yes, my minivan will drive through your neighborhood to take my child to school. But these are small inconveniences in light of our whole child’s life.

Sarah K. Bain

Spokane