The Oct. 22 North Kitsap School Board meeting was yet another fascinating display of disconnect between the school board and the teachers.

An overflowing crowd of parents, students and teachers applauded loudly as one speaker after another (including one student) expressed frustration with the district’s central administration and the superintendent.

One teacher described the relationship between the central administration and staff as of a monarchy and peasants. This “Us” vs. “Them” attitude, the lack of cooperation, the “my way or the highway” philosophy of past and present superintendents, seems to be part of the district’s calcified DNA. Unfortunately, this relationship existed when I was hired 20 years ago and when I quit 10 years ago.

Mr. Henden mentioned that the “connection between board and teachers could be better.” Mr. Webb said, “We don’t really know what is going on. I can get information from the superintendent …”

Another board member said, “We love our schools.” Yes, you do, otherwise you would not serve on the board. However, love is just an irrational emotion. Those presentations on Oct. 22 should have given you the rationale to do some substantial house cleaning.

James Behrend
Bainbridge Island