Dear Editor,
I’m an American and proud daughter of Italian immigrants — and I believe we can celebrate both Columbus Day and Indigenous People’s Day without disrespecting someone for celebrating either. What I don’t get is why five Republicans on the NC Board of Education recently pushed through a school day off – starting in 2024 — after 10 years of celebrating Columbus IN school. One BOE member claimed not having Columbus Day off was “cancel culture.” But, it was actually a bi-partisan BOE decision, made in 2013, because BOE members thought it was in the children’s best interest. Were teachers in favor of reinstating a day off? No. They were concerned about having another day off during a vital time of instruction. They felt they could continue celebrating Columbus in school (similar to Veteran’s Day) while being able to prepare kids for upcoming AP tests. Were parents clamoring for this? Doubtful. Why would Republicans push for a change that clearly goes against the advice of teachers and the best interest of our children? I really don’t know. And, I worry about what’s next. The one moderate Republican on the Board of Education, Katrina Parkhill — who did not vote in favor of this decision and has done SO much for our children and schools – is not running for re-election, which really makes this November 7th election a critical one. I will be voting for the only true moderates running for the Board of Ed — Brendan Hayes, Lauren Nussbaum and Josh Kaye — because they’ll keep national politics and culture wars out of decision-making, and will always put our kids first.
Sincerely,
Rita Bettino
