Much more was discussed at the school board meeting on May 3, 2010, than teacher collaboration. First, the board announced an official "financial emergency."

Trustee Edie Brooks commented that IB wasn't costing anything (wrong - the district claimed recently the figure was $24,000/year for LCHS alone, and that figure was revised downward from their previous figure of $140,000/year - they've done some budget shifting involving salaries, we believe).

Next they discussed trying to save $10,000 by charging kids a locker fee. Next, they announced they'd be asking for $5.37 million this August in a special levy for KTEC. Next, the board put off the decision on "teacher collaboration" after being chided for not involving parents or the business community in the decision.

Next, Hazel announced that there would be no opportunity for any citizens to speak out at the May 17, 2010, "schools of choice" workshop (which the school board previously indicated would be our opportunity to have open discussion regarding the IB/PYP program). Instead, they will accept written comments and consider them later. Next, the Long Range Planning Committee chair announced it anticipated HUGE $$ needs in the future - I believe $49 million was mentioned as their starting point.

FINALLY, after making a room full of "patrons" wait about two hours, they permitted public comment, and once again IB/PYP became the topic.

One speaker listed a number of issues on which she claimed the board has taken action recently without the required public input. These include instructional materials, the Kinder Center, science curriculum, IB/PYP, "schools of choice" and school start times.

The same speaker asserted that Vern Newby told her in a meeting that he often meets with Edie Brooks and Hazel Bauman to make decisions, without the other trustees (another claimed violation). She stated Mr. Newby made a recording of that meeting and promised to provide a copy. However, the tape Mr. Newby ultimately provided to this person was blank for some reason.

Obfuscating and shutting down any meaningful discussion with the public, despite a real financial emergency and need for new ideas and citizen input - that is what our District 271 School Board is up to.

Due to the school board's unilateral decision to stifle discussion of its controversial IB/PYP programmes, we invite the public and the school board to attend our public information meeting regarding IB/PYP - at the Coeur d'Alene Public Library from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Monday, May 10, 2010. Everyone is welcome, whether you support or oppose IB/PYP, or just don't have enough information.

Duncan Koler is a Hayden Lake resident.