Dear Editor,
(In response to: ‘Superintendent’s comment outlandish,? The Citizen, March 14, page 6):
I feel it is my duty as a Brandon student and as an individual to respond in an orderly manner. Superintendent McMahon’s comment was not outlandish or racist. She should not feel obligated to apologize for anything, for she has done nothing immoral or illegal to merit discipline by the board of education. It is pure ignorance or foolishness that would call for discipline. The Bill of Rights gives all the right to freedom of speech. Kudos to Superintendent McMahon for exercising her rights.
The quote in question was not racist in the slightest of ways. Superintendent McMahon was merely stating a fact that is evident in BHS and for the rest of the school district. The vast majority of ‘native? Brandon students are white and some students who attend Brandon but do not live in the district are racial minorities. Schools of choice brings in diversity; there is no room for arguing about that. I have been a Brandon student for four years and I can honestly say that Superintendent McMahon’s comments hold truth. As more out-of-district students arrive, our schools are enriched both ethnically and intellectually.
It is my strong opinion that the writer is misinformed about what is the duty of the school board. The board members were elected to make Brandon School District a shining example, to the state of Michigan and to the United States. As BHS is a blue ribbon school, it can be inferred that the job has been done fantastically. It is ‘common sense? that a diverse environment as a child leads to a healthier and more fulfilling life as an adult. Diversity is the spice of life.
With all due respect, C. Fulkerson: grow up.
Megan Lung
Brandon Township