As I finish my third year on the Centralia School District Board of Directors, every day I consider the complex tasks facing public education: unfunded mandates, revenue shortfalls, student behavior, community values, unacceptable achievement levels, homeless students and challenging economic times for our families and taxpayers.
The status of public education is a critical national, state and local problem. Sometimes, it seems almost hopeless.
Then I participated in the Lighted Tractor Parade.
Hundreds of families with their children attended. The bright lights, big rigs and Christmas spirit were reflected in the radiant faces of the little ones. They were so excited by the sights and sounds. Everyone was waving and in good cheer.
We do have a great community. We have a county committed to its children. Lewis County is blessed with fantastic Christmas events in Centralia, Napavine, Onalaska, Chehalis and all of our cities.
Our future, our nation's future, our community's future and our family's future was there. Their education is our solemn obligation.
I have had the privilege of meeting many of the superintendents and board members in our county. I can affirm that they understand and accept that obligation. The administrators, teachers and staff continually seek to improve their programs.
Those children lining the streets are the bright lights of our future. But we cannot rely on or expect our public schools to do it alone. Parents, grandparents and concerned citizens must become proactive and committed partners.
I know these are difficult and challenging times. Many are facing difficult personal decisions. Nonetheless, our responsibility is inescapable. If we, as adults, fail this generation of children, we will leave a terribly unfortunate legacy.
You, I and all of us must keep the bright lights shining and getting brighter every day.
Tim Browning
Centralia
