I must take exception to David Barbe’s letter in the Aug. 20 edition. Although humorous, having lived here for 42 years leads me to question his premise.
1) Congrats to Ostroms for calling attention to the fact they don’t sell tobacco. Mr. Barbe’s comment about their selling candy seems somewhat off base as I doubt someone seeking candy would head to Ostroms rather than one of the many supermarkets in the area. I also believe quitting a candy “habit” would be much easier than giving up an addictive substance such as tobacco.
2) My daughter is a special-ed teacher, having children in grades four, five and six in one class with multiple disabilities and behavior disorders. During her so-called “summer off” she has completed 47 required hours of instruction of technology related classes with many more to complete. She had one student with developmental disabilities who didn’t even know how to use a computer mouse. When he went to junior high, he was familiar with computers and had used the available reading and math computer programs the Northshore School District provides. Many parents these days leave everything up to the schools and provide little or no support at home. I had this problem with my son in the California school system not using the phonics system at that time. Being a working, single parent, I purchased books and every weekend, one hour on and one hour off, I literally taught him to read and it didn’t take that long.
Perhaps Mr. Barbe would like to visit a class to see how teachers spend their own money, without reimbursement, to enhance the teaching process. And, don’t forget the materials provided by teachers so every student will be able to give their parents a gift for Mothers Day, Fathers Day and Christmas. Don’t forget the gaily wrapped clothes and shoes, from Santa, provided during the holidays, again without reimbursement, so every child may have the joy of opening gifts “just for them.” Let’s give the teachers a break, Mr. Barbe, and direct your displeasure elsewhere.
Camille M. Brady, Kenmore
