Service Clubs

* I am writing to voice my disagreement with the decision of the Los Angeles Unified School District to discontinue the honor service organizations in middle schools. Students with excellent records of academic achievement and who demonstrate support for school activities will no longer have the opportunity of being recognized. Students will also be denied an opportunity to further contribute to their school by being engaged in charitable activities. For example, in the past the Paul Revere Town Criers have organized canned-food collections for the homeless, raised money for charities and organized school clean-up activities.

My daughter, who was fortunate to be chosen to be a Town Crier this year, has gained a sense of accomplishment and recognition from her membership in this group. The existence of service organizations such as the Town Criers allows students to be recognized not for their popularity (as is often the case with student government), possessions, or athletic accomplishments, but for their true demonstration of school spirit.

MATTHEW GOETZ

Los Angeles