Three Days Later: Keep It Together

I've been told that my previous entry has experienced a certain amount of circulation back in Cambridge. In all honesty, it was never intended to reach Guernsey County and I feel that I must take the time to clear a few things up so as to prevent it from being taken the wrong way.

First of all, this isn't just about basketball. In fact it's not about sports at all. It should be made clear that several other teachers have lost their jobs as well. Good teachers. My argument stems from the fact that there are other areas of the school district that can be cut first. This brings me to my next point.

I understand there are going to be cuts. In all reality, there are going to be drastic cuts. I know it's unreasonable to think we can save every teacher's job but I feel that we must try and save as many as possible. Despite our new buildings and successful sports teams, the lifeblood of this school district is and will continue to be enthusiastic, caring educators who are willing to make nearly any sacrifice for their students. Anyone who thinks differently is sorely mistaken. I don't know about you, but I fully expect a 'play-to-pay' system.

Having said that I want you to know that I ALSO fully expect the community to make their presence known and support the kids that work so hard to represent the community on the gridiron, hardcourt, diamond, and various other mediums. Not only would athletics be affected by these cuts but Art and Music departments as well. All of Cambridge will either have to stand up and help these programs survive sit back allow the people who have dedicated their lives to them watch as they sink into oblivion. The football program has one of the most dedicated and productive booster programs I've ever seen. I have no doubt they would take whatever steps necessary to raise the money for any child who wants to play football to play. The entire school would have to match this effort.

Effort. We all have to come to the conclusion that in the upcoming weeks, months, and years we are all going to have to put forth an amazing amount of effort. We're taught that throughout history the greatest accomplishments of mankind have only been achieved through great sacrifice. We all will have to make these sacrifices.

Finally, I want to let anyone who reads this know that I think my previous entry was not only sloppily written, but also full of what I would consider hateful spew. It's my opinion that such rhetoric serves no purpose in correcting the problems we're faced with. Perhaps, subconsciously, I hoped it would force those were remaining silent to speak or make those who thought it "wasn't their problem" to come forward. Apparently it did some of those things and for that I'm happy. However, it's important to remember that simply spouting off won't accomplish anything. We have to call and write our superintendent, board members, and admministrators. Look at the previous entry to find information on doing that.

I've told people that, in retrospect, I don't like the tone with which I wrote my last post. It's too dark and demeaning. It almost makes it seem like the bad guys have already won. After saying that they ask me if I intend to edit it at all. The answer is no. This is because the tone represents the emotions that were running through my veins the night I wrote that. Nothing has changed. I remain angry. I remain livid. I remain concerned. The only difference is that I am now focused.

My only hope is that the same amount of people who felt my last blog was worth spreading feel this one is worthy of the same attention. Cambridge is my home and I believe it's worth saving. I'll never stop believing that.

Viva la resistance.