I am writing in response to comments made at the April 25th School Board meeting regarding the Chesapeake Public Charter School. I am disturbed by the attitude of the Board and Dr. Martirano towards the Charter School. I fail to understand the very clear opposition to educational choices in our county.

Cathy Allen said, “It’s a leap of faith to bring their children here not knowing if they will be open a second year.” I am willing to place my children in the Charter School for even one year for a chance at that kind of an education in St. Mary’s County. Negative comments such as this serve no purpose in building community and cause me to lose my faith in you, as an elected official, in making decisions for my children.

The patronizing statements from Dr. Martirano, saying I have to “put those emotions behind us”, is insulting to me as a parent. If I as the parent of these children am not emotional and passionate about their upbringing and quality of education then I have failed as a parent! Who better to advocate for them than me?

The pot can call the kettle black, but as the parent of a child who is enrolled in St. Mary’s county schools, I know that the school system isn’t perfect. I know that what occurred in my son’s middle school classroom this year has been less then ideal. Explain to me how a long term substitute, a non certified person, was in charge of his special education class for five months without parent notification. Explain to me why we waited until April 25th to receive a textbook? Explain to me why you have failed to meet his IEP goals? Explain to me why you, Dr. Martirano, have NEVER replied to my attempts to discuss my concerns with you.

Dr. Martirano and the school board would like parents to believe they have the children’s best interest in mind, however, the obvious bullying of the Charter School leadership and attempts to block educational choices in our county have not gone unnoticed. I vote in this county and I will remember, come next election time, what you have said and what you have done.

Cynthia Chan

Lexington Park