I was interested to read an article recently in the WW-P News featuring a stimulating quote by one of our newest Board of Education representatives. Scott Powell, who I assume is otherwise a moral and decent man, has voiced his opinion that my fellow employees have benefitted from the apparently obnoxious generosity of previously bargained contracts. (“Powell also added the district’s employee-friendly contracts did not correspond with economic trends.”)
I would in turn like to respond that the district employees’ student-friendly performance does not correspond with education trends. I have worked in three other districts. I was at a career crossroads when hired by WW-P 10 years ago. I was unsure if I wanted to continue a career in education. When I began working here I was immediately thrust into an ideal sphere where passion, intellect, and effort fueled curiosity, creativity, and unparalleled achievement. The teachers, staff, and administration work tirelessly to polish our craft. We are incredibly successful at doing exactly that.
I’m sure I am mistaken to assume that Mr. Powell’s “employee- friendly” remark was used to decry the fair and decent contracts that were mutually agreed upon between the district and teacher’s union. Teaching is incredibly rewarding. We work on the front line of human achievement. We love your children and endeavor to create opportunities for them at every turn. It would appear that perhaps Mr. Powell doesn’t grasp the full realization of what we do. West Windsor and Plainsboro don’t offer superior views. We don’t have a vibrant night life. On the surface it seems utterly ordinary. What makes our community special is the extraordinary nature of our schools.
The innovation of our talented and dedicated staff coupled with a community that appreciates the virtues of knowledge and achievement is a priceless combination. Residents choose to invest in our community because they know it’s a priceless investment in their children’s future. Not to offer the employees who are trusted to set an exceptional path for our children a fair and decent contract is to offer little appreciation for what we are doing and provides less incentive to attract the next generation of brilliant educators.
Kurt Wayton
The writer is a teacher and coach at High School South.
