An article in the Oct. 8 issue of the CVN gives details that the school board president “...didn’t want discussion of the (preschool) issue in the community before a school board meeting.” It is unfortunate that school board members felt it was necessary to exclude staff in early discussions regarding the preschool placement. Haines Borough School District staff members are important stakeholders whose input should be welcomed.

By not including staff, we now find ourselves in an awkward place. The editorial in the Oct. 22 CVN urges the school board to “...just make it happen... ” However, nothing is free and money needs to come from somewhere.

If not done correctly, a rash decision could cost the district years of grief. The Chilkat Valley Preschool board sent an email telling staff that our concerns are no big deal. It also states that the decision to put a preschool in the Haines School was based on the “bigger picture,” a “picture” that did not include community input.

The teachers I know knock themselves out to help this district achieve the distinguished successes we’ve attained. Our programs and the success of our students are a very big deal. Board members hold the fiduciary responsibility for our district, not the Chilkat Valley Preschool. It is unfortunate the premature action of the board has put the preschool in such a precarious position. Our needs are quite different from other districts. Include everyone, especially stakeholders, in the process.

Jansy Hansen