Letter from a parent

Dear Soquel Union School Board,

Last night my husband and I attended our first Soquel Union School District Board meeting. We were there to hear our community’s statements about the intra district board policy and the concern we have over the Home & School club policy change. My husband and I wanted to share with you our overall feelings of the meeting. 

We were very impressed with all the speakers that gave their statements about the intra district transfers. They appeared to have presented their facts, numbers and feelings about the situation in a clear and professional manner.  They obviously did their research, came prepared and represented the hundreds of people in our community that were too nervous to speak and attend. What really got our attention was the number of inter district transfers attending our schools and why the students currently in our district, asking for intra district transfers, are being denied. We find it interesting that there had been no mention of the inter district transfers before when the argument was to not over crowd our classrooms. We also heard many speakers ask you, the Board members, to think of the lives of the children and their families that will be directly affected. Is this all worth the disruption of our community? Isn’t the reason why you decided to be a part of our districts school board was to do what’s best for our community?  

Regarding Henry’s presentation on the Home & School Club policy update it was very confusing and vague. We didn’t understand nor anyone we were sitting next to understand what the updates were. It appeared to us that he would say one thing and then say something completely different. It was obvious that he wasn't clear on what he was trying to get across especially when parents were asking him questions on it. He mentioned that he just got the information at 4pm but it would've been nice to hear something like, "I haven't had time to completely understand the new law because I just got this information right before the meeting.” I think people would’ve understood and appreciated his honesty and not have attacked him as much and saved a lot of time at the meeting.

When you, the Board members, explained about the policy updates it was clear and simple. Although, the information that was provided from you and what was presented by Henry in his presentation was contradictory. What is making us nervous, and I can speak for many parents, is what you were saying about the policy update and what Henry said and had said in his past meeting is completely different. We want to make sure, you, as Board members, continue to go over all of what Henry is trying to change and understand his intentions before any votes are made. We trust you have the best of intentions for our community and that’s why we voted for you. 

As far as the letter that Henry sent out today it was a breath of fresh air to hear him speak his truth that the meeting was difficult for him and his ineffective job in the area of communication regarding Board policy 1230. It was nice to hear that humbling statement. 

In conclusion, we thank you for continuing to question Henry on his actions, statements, and intentions that may not be 100% clear to you. As one said, “everyone hears things differently.” You, represent us, the community, and we pray that you help us understand what we’re hearing really is best for our children. 

Thank you for your dedication and time.

Warmly, 

Kris and Shain Holden