×

Superintendents Put In Staggering Hours

To The Reader’s Forum:

I would like to comment on Mr. Platz’s recent contribution to the Reader’s Forum. His basic premise is that our Superintendent of the Southwestern Central School System is overpaid. Having taught school for thirty-five years, I experienced quite a variety of capable and dedicated superintendents. Regardless of their philosophies, the hours they put in were staggering. A superintendent is literally in charge of every district employee as well as being responsible for every student who is, by the way, equipped with parents. I have found that parents find public schools a convenient place to voice dissatisfaction as they have access to each teacher and administrator. And the buck stops at the superintendent.

Basically, anyone with a primitive awareness of public education is aware that education is not just a job but also a total immersion into the lives of kids. The immersion of a dedicated, competent superintendent is literally 24/7. How should a superintendent be compensated?

That’s up to the school board. School board members serve a thankless job to be sure. Right up there with superintendents and school bus drivers, positions I was wise enough not to pursue. The board members have the responsibility to bring in the best talent to fill administrative positions. As alumnus of SWCS (1968, thank you), I remain concerned that my neighbor kids get the best education they deserve. With Maureen Donahue at the helm, I am confident as an older Trojan that SWCS is a safe, well-respected district. Accountability? Maybe Mr. Platz isn’t reading the same district results in The Post-Journal that I am.

As previously mentioned, those in education are positioned by default to receive static about their salaries, the number of days they work, the godforsaken school taxes. I surrounded myself with 25 young humans every day, loved them severely and worked very long hours, and that static rolled off my back. I know what educators do and there is no point in putting a price tag on it.

Craig Seger

Lakewood

Newsletter

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *
   

COMMENTS

[vivafbcomment]

Starting at $4.62/week.

Subscribe Today