School story doesn't give whole picture
As concerned parents of Colonia students, we want to clarify some of the comments included in Kathy Chang's article, "Parents urge more oversight on teacher-student interaction"(2/22/08). As written, the article leaves the impression that we were satisfied with the results of the BOE meeting; in fact, we were not. As indicated by the number of parents and residents who have attached their names to this letter, many of us feel that this issue has yet to be adequately addressed.

When the article quotes Jacki Cheslow's statement that "after the parents met with school officials, they left on a positive note," there was no indication that this comment referred to a meeting held on February 11 with Mr. Smith, Ms. Korodan, Mr. Dziedzic, Ms.Acquisto andMr.McLaughlin. Thismeeting followed one held the previous week with Board of Education members Mr. Small, Mr. Molnar and Ms. Acquisto. At these meetings, suggestions and concerns expressed by parents appeared to have been taken seriously; indeed, there was an expectation that a communication would be forthcoming to address and allay expressed parental concerns. Furthermore, Mr. Smith andMr.McLaughlin had indicated that they would consider suggestions for additional staff training and possible implementation of a program for students. Parents did not leave the BOE meeting on a "positive note."

At the conclusion of the meeting including School Superintendent Mr. Smith, we implored him to address the issue at the BOE meeting so that it would not be necessary for us to come to the mike. That did not happen. We had asked for a correspondence to the parents as soon as possible. That has not happened. When parents went to the mike at the BOE meeting, it was an attempt to have the BOE and Administration acknowledge discussions with parents, publicly establish an understanding of our concerns and recognize that new strategies need to be considered. Hearing Mr. Smith state that perhaps next time our suggestions would be considered was a great disappointment. As concerned parents we want to see actions taken to avoid a "Next time."

It is in the interest of the safety of our children that we look to ensure that this conversation with Board of Education members, Administration officials and school personnel continues. Communication and shared ideas need to be the ideal that we strive for in all issues that affect our children and their education in Woodbridge Township.

Jacki & Andy Cheslow

Woodbridge

(Editor's Note: ten additional signatures were removed for space)