The attitude of the Westbury School Board seems to be developed from an 18th century book on How to Keep a Slave. In this book, the author focuses on "fear, distrust and envy for control purposes." This is a disappointment for the community. The following are examples of the 18th century concepts applied to 20th century school board activities.

1. Assault of Westbury senior community evidenced by female member of the school board, in the presence of the school board president, attacking a member of the community by stating, "You are too old to run for the board. You should not be here. This is my turf (Park Ave. School)." One cannot but wonder about the ethical and moral values of the president of the board, based on his lack of comment about the conduct, language and tone of this board member.

2. The marriage of the board to the professional union. This is a good marriage, with each entity helping the other out. For example, the latter is directed by the former to entice people to vote. Promotion is followed within the marriage contract. This raises a question: Is the school board really in control, or is it carrying out orders from outside sources?

3. Presenting a budget 12.97 percent higher than last year. That increase would impact significantly on the large number of senior citizens with fixed incomes.

4. Failure to communicate with the community. This is evidenced by the BOCES fiasco. The community was not notified. As a result, the $320,000 deficit due to loss of BOCES from the tax rolls.

5. Failure of the school board to hold teachers accountable for effective teaching as indicated by the poor academic performance of a majority of school district children.

Finally, the focus of the school board is in the wrong direction. The focus of the board is on personal gain. The focus should be on the future of all of our children. The future looks bleak for the school board and our children if current activities within the board continue. If I am wrong, I will be rebuked. But if I am right, history will sustain me.

Ann E. Sweat