The recent turmoil at Everett High School over The Kodak is so unnecessary. Here we have – or, more accurately, had – a consistent, high quality, even award-winning paper and the new principal, Catherine Matthews, determined to make an impression with her new students, succeeds by effectively shutting the paper down.
I agree that Matthews has the right to review the content of the paper before it goes to press or is circulated. Sadly, however, Matthews is confusing her right with her obligation. She must have read the book “If It Ain’t Broke, Break It.” She should read “How to Win Friends and Influence People.”
At the school district meeting where this fiasco was discussed, the attendance by interested citizens was literally overflowing. I am curious about two things: 1. How many were there in support of Matthews? 2. How many citizens normally attend school board meetings? At the meeting, Roy Yates suggested that by having Matthews’ involvement, the school board might better avoid a lawsuit. Well, isn’t it ironic the way things have developed?
I understand perfectly Carol Whitehead’s public support of her protg – Matthews – but I sincerely hope when the two are alone together that Whitehead emphasizes how Matthews single-handedly ruined an award-winning student publication and thereby poisoned the atmosphere at Everett High. I wish my daughter, a senior at Everett High School, graduated last year.
Otto Chase
Everett
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