Ron Bancroft’s views are ill-informed at best (Another View: “Teachers union should not block school reform legislation,” Feb. 23).

To say that he hopes that the Maine Education Association has “reassessed its position and will support a focus on what helps students most” demonstrates his lack of knowledge about my colleagues and me.

We are the MEA — the teachers, educational technicians, cafeteria workers, custodians, drivers, secretaries, librarians, nurses — all the dedicated professionals who want a great public education for every student in Maine. And his words show a lack of respect for our work every day for Maine’s students.

The governor’s education proposals will clearly harm our schools and our students by diverting resources and undermining educators. How could I not be opposed to such “reforms”? My focus is and always has been on helping my students!

Over the break, I spent time at the State House, discussing with legislators my concerns with the governor’s ideas. I was impressed by our legislators’ dedication. But I heard one committee struggle with the consequences of legislation passed hurriedly last spring. A few legislators told me sometimes a bill is voted on with little time to fully understand the implications.

I wonder when Mr. Bancroft last spoke with, and listened to, the educators who work hard to see that Maine’s students meet with success. Apparently he and the governor are listening instead to the American Legislative Exchange Council.

My union — my colleagues and I — we care about the students. We’re not getting rich in our profession; we didn’t do this to become rich. But if these reforms go through as intended, someone — the corporations behind them — will be making money, I’m sure. But it won’t help our students.

Grace Leavitt is a resident of Raymond.

 

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