Editor,

I am writing to express my concern about a trend in how the local papers cover our island’s three school district superintendents. What follows is my opinion; I don’t speak on behalf of any organizations.

Your article about Dr. Moccia’s retirement (“South Whidbey school leadership changes in store”) mentions her salary in the second sentence, while neglecting to acknowledge her significant contributions to the district. Her 13 years of leadership deserve some form of recognition. And the article about Oak Harbor’s superintendent (“Oak Harbor superintendent salary set”) was even more blatantly centered on her salary, with only one sentence devoted to her experience.

This stands in stark contrast to the articles about Messrs. King and Gibbon (“King to leave Coupeville Schools” and “Former Oak Harbor superintendent loses job in Snoqualmie Valley”) which generously highlighted their careers and accomplishments.

Focusing on a woman’s salary while overlooking her achievements perpetuates a sexist narrative. In the future, I urge a more balanced approach that addresses the merits of all our island’s superintendents, regardless of gender. Local news is vital for a healthy democracy, and while I understand the current challenges faced by small local media outlets, unbiased coverage is something you can achieve without additional staffing or resources.

Joe Greenheron

Clinton