As a past member of the Central Kitsap School Board, I believe that I have some insight regarding the current “issues” that are affecting the board and the administration.

The “real” issue facing the district goes far deeper than what we’re reading in the news. I believe that the bottom line issue is that a few individuals perceive the strong leadership of the superintendent (and administration) to be a threat to their personal “self-absorbed” agenda. In other words, instead of a willingness to work as a team, a few have chosen to undermine and demean the superintendent, and work to replace him with someone more to their liking.

First off, since only a handful of people in the community attend board meetings, very few are aware of the demeaning and cutting remarks that are often made by two board members. In addition, these members have consistently violated one of the most fundamental Rules of Conduct that board members agree to at the beginning of each new school year: no surprise there.

It is inappropriate to raise an issue during a meeting without first notifying the superintendent and board president. The violation of this agreement is a tactic used to embarrass or intimidate the superintendent. Such a tactic also violates several basic operating “principles” of the district, especially Principle #3 (Code of Governance): “Recognize that schools thrive in a community where there is an atmosphere of mutual respect.”

Secondly, although the CKEA issued a “no confidence” vote, less than half of the teachers in CKSD actually voted. I’m aware of a significant number of teachers that have expressed their support for the superintendent since that vote was announced.

Frankly, the actions of what appears to be a few CKEA leaders, and two board members, is a blatant attempt to discredit the efforts of the superintendent and staff, and is a slap in the face to numerous members of the community who have invested significant time and energy in providing informed input and recommendations to the school board over the past several years.

Our school district leadership deserves better. They deserve our respect and our support.

Carl Johnson

Bremerton