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Dear Editor:

I am writing with regard to the article, "The Principal Kids Love to Hug" ( Spring 2000). I was both shocked that Principal David Nufer at Finger Lake Elementary chose to present the situation as he did and amazed that it was actually published. As an educator and a principal of many years, I have learned that it is quite easy to compare oneself to one's predecessor in a favorable light, as the predecessor is no longer there. I have also learned that a school culture and strong programs are built over many years, and that while a program might experience recognition and success during the oversight of one principal, the building blocks were usually in place years prior to that recognition.

I find it quite sad that Mr. Nufer chose to detract from the work of former Principal Nancy Carder and her staff at Finger Lake in the comments he was quoted as saying in the article. I believe that this "competitive" aspect to awards and recognition totally detracts from the collegiality we need to build between peers in order to improve education for all students.

A physical education teacher I once worked with had a saying posted on the gym wall that said, "You don't need to blow out another's candle to make your own flame brighter." Unfortunately, in your zest to make the most of Mr. Nufer's accomplishments, this is what happened, and it is a shame. Dr. Carder is a talented and dedicated professional, who in my opinion could easily be named "Distinguished Principal of the Year" because of her talents, dedication, and hard work for children.

Patricia McRae
Executive Director
Elementary Education
Anchorage School District
Anchorage, Alaska

 

Dear Editor:

I was somewhat surprised that a professional publication promoting the positive work of principals (Spring 2000, "The New Principal") would in its contents allow a reporter/writer to laud one at the expense of another. It is my belief that every principal has strengths and opportunities. No two are exactly the same. This does not always mean that one is better than another. It definitely means that your writer could have found enough of Mr. Nufer's accomplishments to write about without his negative references to my work before him. In this case, only part of the story was told.

Nancy Carder Ed.D., J.D.
Principal
Chugiak Elementary School
Anchorage, Alaska

 

Dear Editor:

I just finished reading the article "A City Fit for Kids" (Winter 1999). I was very impressed with the commitment to the youth of the city of Boise. The ownership conferred on the youth of this city is an example to other cities around the country. These activities and events are developing future citizens who will take an active role in their community and government. They are also developing leaders. The idea of service is missing in many people today, not just the youth. It is exciting to read about young people getting worked up over service to the public good. Specifically, I can identify with action of Boise's youth to build a skateboard park. Some young people in my hometown are working to this end, but encountering resistance. I think they are doing a great job and hope they are successful.

I particularly found the systematic evaluation to be interesting. By identifying the assets that help young people succeed, and then assessing them to check for development and to identify weaknesses, Boise is preparing its children for a successful future.

Randy Hartwig
Science Teacher
Marshfield High School
Marshfield, Wisconsin

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