First, I want to thank the members of the Marshalltown School Board for the many hours of service they give freely to our public schools. I have been there and know how stressful it can be at times. But I also know how great it is to be a part of helping grow our next generation. I am very thankful they chose to run for public office and perform this most necessary service.

Now to one of the most distasteful editorials I have ever read in my hometown newspaper, the Marshalltown Times-Republican. I am speaking of the “Where is the outrage, Marshalltown?” in the T-R Dec. 23 “Matter of Opinion.” Without going deep into this unfortunate editorial view, I want all to know that comparing the Marshalltown unfortunate matter to that of the Waukee School District matter is wrong on all accounts. Asking the citizens of my hometown to come with “public outcry” is simply wrong.

Throughout the nation we see such attacks in this culture which lead to very bad outcomes. It is my hope that the new leadership at the Times-Republican recognizes this and would have the courage to apologize to our public servants for its misguided “review.” We are Marshalltown Strong and Iowa Kind and I pray that we do not turn my lifetime community into the opposite with newspaper editorials such as this one.