We are concerned parents of a child attending Olympic View Elementary. Thanks to the media, it is now common knowledge that the old North Whidbey Middle school, the temporary location of OVE, has been shut down due to air quality concerns.

Are we concerned about all of our children’s health? Of course we are. Are we concerned about their relocation to another school? It goes without saying. But what we are most concerned about is the attitude expressed by parents, toward Olympic View Elementary staff, at the public meeting held April 22.

All Olympic View parents were encouraged to attend this informational meeting. A memo was handed out at the door to answer questions. Teachers had set up tables to hand out assignments for the week, Olympic View staff were available to note concerns and comments and Ms. Swanson, Olympic View’s principal, addressed the crowd. Even though a microphone was set up for parents to ask questions and address their concerns, the room was full of loud accusations and attacks on Ms. Swanson. Although valid concerns were expressed, not one single person came forward to say thank you.

We have three children in Oak Harbor schools, one in high school, one in middle school and one at Olympic View Elementary. All three spent their elementary years at Olympic View. We would have it no other way. We know that we are not alone when we say thank you to each and every teacher, volunteer and administrative person.

Thank you for looking out for the best interests of our children (we know that it is because of your advocacy that the school has been closed). Thank you for coming in early, staying late and paying for supplies out of your own pockets. Thank you for bandaging knees, blowing noses and sharing your lunch when someone forgot theirs. Thank you for working in an underpaid and underappreciated field. Thank you for moving your classrooms, yet another time, this year. Thank you for hanging tough during a year that shook the very foundation of American life.

As parents, of course we are concerned and we’ve been around long enough to know where responsibility lies. If you are concerned about the quality of your child’s education, direct your concerns to the staff at Olympic View. If you are concerned about the quality of the building, direct your concerns to the superintendent and the school board.

Tim and Lori Watt

Oak Harbor