Hoff's philosophy demands attention

Maureen Bernardy seems confused about who’s on who’s back.In her letter (Jan. 8, “Get off Charlie Hoff’s back and start helping”), she wonders “who gets more blame around here, George Bush or Charlie Hoff.”

I doubt if anyone on a national level gives Federal Way School Board member Charlie Hoff a second thought, so around here it must be Charlie.

Instead of the hiding cloak Ms. Bernardy suggests, let’s use an inexpensive 30-gallon yard waste bag.

You’re correct, Maureen, he’s no Pollyanna; the way you describe him he sounds more like Mr. Potato Head with his angry eyes.

Last year, Charlie refused to attend graduation ceremonies for Federal Way Public Schools’ high school seniors because he was afraid of their behavior. He suggests that most of our graduates are undeserving; this must be how he shows his dedication to all our students.

Instead of getting off Charlie Hoff’s back, start paying attention to what he is really doing. Everyone jump on Charlie’s back!

Nancy Papineau

Federal Way

I wanted to comment on a statement I read in Forum from Maureen Bernardy, who wrote, “Where is it written that we need to have fun, entertain and amuse our students? Education is not meant to be entertainment.”

I can tell Ms. Bernardy exactly where it is written. It is written on the faces of my students each morning as they enter my classroom. One need only visit a Federal Way public school to see this.

I am not a person speaking from the outside looking in. I am a person speaking from experience, a person who sees wonderful and exciting things happening in our schools each and every day, a person who has seen the excitement on a child’s face when they’ve learned a new concept, and a person that sees the true value in making learning exciting.

I feel that the most important thing about a child’s school year is that they feel welcome, feel safe and have fun! Once these three components are in place, learning happens.

As an educator I can cram as much WASL prep, reading, writing and math into the heads of my students that I possibly can, but if they leave my classroom disliking school, I’ve accomplished nothing. Students that enjoy school, stay in school.

We as adults generally enjoy doing things we consider to be fun. I wouldn’t expect any less of my students.

Jason Brown

Vice president, Federal Way Education Association

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.