LAKELAND: Being held accountable is not hate

Recently, a member of the Lakeland School Board stated, “I’m really tired of all the hate.” But holding elected officials accountable and pointing out failures is not hate — it is a civic responsibility. It is how a community stays informed about decisions that affect its schools and its children.

I have been part of this community for 60 years. I attended Lakeland schools and later spent 30 years serving the district as a coach, teacher, head teacher, and principal. During that time, I was proud to be part of a district respected across the state and throughout North Idaho.

Today, many are asking how one of the state’s strongest districts has become a source of concern. The answer lies in a pattern of instability and questionable leadership decisions. In the past four years alone, the district has gone through three superintendents and multiple board clerks. Most notably, the board hired and then dismissed a superintendent, buying out his contract at a cost of roughly $200,000 to taxpayers.

Since retiring, I have worked with other districts as a leadership mentor. One principle stands out: leadership is not about exerting power, but about empowering others. Recent reporting in the CDA Press, along with newly adopted policy changes, suggest a shift away from that principle and toward a focus on control.

I also want to recognize the dedicated employees of the Lakeland School District who show up every day to support and educate students. They are the foundation of this community’s future and deserve consistent respect and support from district leadership.

Our schools, our students, and our community deserve better — and leadership that reflects those values.

JOHN KLINGAMAN

Rathdrum