School Repair for Naught, Parent Says

For years, the trustees of the Anaheim Union High School District have failed to provide a safe, healthy environment for our kids, causing Kennedy High School in La Palma to be in a state of disrepair. This summer, parents completely refurbished the band room, putting in over 450 hours and getting [money] donated by citizens. As a result, new paint, acoustic tile, carpet and plumbing valued at $20,000 was installed.

Upon completion, we asked the trustees to accept the $20,000 project as full payment for an existing $8,000 obligation.

To our amazement, the trustees, without discussion, decided they would not entertain such a request. To do so would “set a bad precedent.” So much for fostering parental involvement. Parents had to provide $20,000 worth of time, energy and materials because the trustees had failed in their responsibilities to do routine maintenance. Now they’re fearful of setting “a bad precedent.”

Once again, the district trustees show us the level of their arrogance, business acumen and people skills. Think I’ll ever do another project? Think again.

KEITH A. NELSON

La Palma