LETTER TO THE EDITOR | Our schools are high-quality

Published 9:19 am Thursday, July 9, 2009

To the editor:

As a parent of two former South Whidbey High School graduates, and a teacher in the South Whidbey School District, I feel obligated to defend our local schools. Mr. Buchanan wrote a letter about the commuter parking lot situation in Mukilteo, but for whatever reason also felt compelled to take an indirect jab at the quality of education at South Whidbey High School.

Along with my own two daughters, South Whidbey High School has produced hundreds of wonderful students who have gone on to the most prestigious colleges and universities in this country and abroad. Our students have gone on to do amazing things with the quality education they have found right here in our own back yard. Don’t get me wrong; I think it is every parent’s right to make decisions regarding their childrens’ education, and if that means going off-island for some, then so be it.

Whidbey Island is a beautiful place to live, but not just because of its scenery. It is the community, filled with people who would do anything for their friends and neighbors that I treasure the most. We care about each other.

The South Whidbey School District is facing tremendous challenges now. Please don’t kick us when we’re down.

Mary Bakeman

Freeland