Dear Editor:
The Union City Board of Education is not perfect; no Board is. But if you visit the new José Martí Middle School – the first school built in UC during the last 72 years – and, if you see, like I do, the work that teachers, school personnel and administrators are doing at Emerson High School on a daily basis, you realize that the concern and dedication the Board of Education officials are showing for the students of Union City is a positive step towards expanding a solid educational system which translates into a strong community.
A graduate of Emerson High School, I came back as a teacher last year. EHS has always been a tough school. It also has a tradition of discipline, caring, accomplishment and pride. In my first days as a teacher at Emerson, I was truly impressed by the neatness in the hallways and the respect students, teachers and staff showed each other and their administration.
With almost 1800 students from diverse backgrounds in such an urban setting as Union City, I doubt if Emerson has seen better days. I doubt if at anytime in its history another event reached the humanistic and exemplary level that the “Marathon for Blackie” reached last April.
Standardized testing scores are up. Professional development for teachers is a priority and the district demands only Highly Qualified Teachers in its classrooms. The lunch program has never been better. Our security staff performs an admirable job from crossing the streets throughout the school hours to preventing any physical harm that might place our students in danger. The Truant Office, under the leadership of Mr. John Medina, exemplifies the concern and professionalism that is a standard at Emerson High School.
“Character Counts” is more than a symbol, it’s an effective tool to a safe and healthy learning environment in every classroom; moreover, it’s a direct reflection on Mr. Robert Fazio, the school principal and Assistant Superintendent of Schools, whose leadership by example has earned national recognition as well as the respect and admiration of the community.
Mayor Brian Stack, who appointed these Board of Education Members, knows that strong schools reflect strong communities.
There may be many questions and differences regarding the Mayor’s politics shared by his political opponents as well as other concerned citizens. There are elections for that. There are issues and spaces for that. The Board of Education shouldn’t be one of them. It shouldn’t be utilized as diving board into the steeper world of politics, simply because education is a sacred light for parents, students and truly dedicated teachers.
The facts show that the appointed members of the UCBOE are definitely doing something right.
Sincerely,
Rafael Martel