BHS: Is a community issue; not just a parent issue

I recently wrote a letter to Dr. Mitchem and the VVSD School Board outlining my concerns about rumors I heard regarding the possibility of Mr. White leaving BHS at the end of this school year.  I received a reply from one board member who stated he thought Mr. White might be leaving for ‘personal and professional reasons’.  After reading the recent very rosy news release from VVSD, I am angry.  I am not alone.  There are many parents, staff members and students who are just plain angry. We believe Mr. White does not want to leave BHS.  Rather, he wants to stay to see his vision come to fruition, but feels extremely limited due to the policies put in place by Dr. Mitchem and the school board. 

Mr. White came into a school that was out of control and very quickly took control.  The difference was noted in a very short time.  Students felt safer, which led to more instructional time, and better focused students.  There are fewer behavior concerns and an increase in academic achievement across the board.  My daughter will attest to the changes that have occurred under Mr. White’s leadership.  Her first year at BHS was the year before he started.  She feels safer, and has noticed that within the student population there is a greater sense of school pride and responsibility. 

Mr. White has a clear vision and a plan to achieve that vision.  Additionally, he has a staff that believes in him and is willing to go above and beyond for him.  He is a visible, hands-on leader who listens to staff, students and parents.  He has earned the trust of the community by being inclusive and speaking straight and plainly about his vision and plan.  Furthermore, he is willing to tackle hard issues head on and seek creative solutions to problems that plague our school.  I am aware that some of his policies are controversial; however, his policies have made a positive impact.  His policies have created an environment conducive to learning.  Now, we need to work together to continue improve the curriculum and teaching methods to insure that all students can succeed.  BHS needs continuity in leadership present at the school; as well as, behind the desk at the Ad-center or in the board room.  We need all parties involved in the education of our children to work together, compromise, and be committed to their success.

The fact is that BHS has a reputation for being a school that you should be worried about.  Over the past few years, I have been approached hundreds of times by parents concerned about sending their child to BHS because of this reputation.  This year, however; the overwhelming response from new parents has been, “I’ve heard Mr. White has really made a difference.  I feel so much better about my kid going to BHS next year.”   If Mr. White leaves, I believe the progress we’ve made will be lost and what a shame that will be. 

One more thought, for those of you who are saying to yourself, “Thank goodness I don’t have a kid at BHS.”  What happens in our VVSD schools affects every single person in this district.  The success of our schools has a direct correlation to property values and the growth of businesses.  Everyone is a stake-holder in this situation.  If you agree with this letter, I urge you to stop by the community room at Fire Station #5: 1900 Rodeo Drive between 5-9PM on Friday, January 24th to sign our petition in support of Mr. White.  Also, we are asking the community to attend the VVSD School Board meeting on January 27th at 7:00PM located at 755 Dalhart Avenue, Romeoville.

Respectfully,

Colleen Douty