Disrespect For Others

To the Editor:

Where do our children get their disrespect for others? Why do they think bullying is acceptable behavior?

Newtown Public Schools have a zero tolerance for bullying. Does that not extend to the Board of Education members themselves? I have attended the recent meetings regarding the busing issues. I have been absolutely appalled!

First, Dr Robinson, our superintendent, just looks straight ahead, only rarely casting a glance at the current speaker. She frequently gets up and leaves the room. As she is not a member of our community, I would think that while she is employed by our community, she should at least to be interested in our feelings. Doesn’t she want to know what is important to us?

Mr Nanavaty should be ashamed of himself. He has been arrogant and condescending. He has belittled Michele of MTM and the chairperson of the Board of Education. He is a prime example of what we do not want our children to become.

The Town of Newtown has a Board of Ethics for complaints. From what I understand, Mr Nanavaty has served on it (I find this particularly scary). Where is the Board of Ethics for the education side of our government?

The citizens of this town deserve to be respected by the employees and elected officials. The bullying must stop! If Mr Nanavaty cannot follow the rules our students follow, perhaps he should send in his resignation. Newtown needs good examples for our children.

Sincerely, Christine Hermes

Mother of five

99 Brushy Hill Road, Newtown                                       May 13, 2009