MARLETTE — The Marlette Community Schools Board of Education meeting held on Sept. 11 had only one action item on the agenda, but there was community input during the public comment period.
In Lapeer County, the Marlette school district serves residents in northern Burlington Township.
It soon became clear that the larger than normal crowd was there to discuss an LGBTQ issue which was never identified. At least four people took advantage of a three-minute talking time and stated opinions defending their position on sexual orientation.
The talking points included the premise that no student should be turned away, brain development of children, school responsibilities, politics and causes of children growing up mean and violent.
Board President Neal Bishop allowed four people to state their views but finally cut off one individual who bordered on defamation and that concluded the discussion with no single issue identified as to what it was that drew at least 20 more people than usual to the meeting.
A few days later, Sept. 13, Superintendent James Marshall volunteered a statement that a satisfactory conclusion had been reached.
“As all school districts should, Marlette appreciates and welcomes parents taking an active interest in their student’s education,” said Marshall. “As with all questions regarding curriculum, we review content to make sure topics are relevant and appropriate. We monitor lesson plans and student progress and periodically adjust throughout the school year.
“It is important to remember the goal of all public education is to develop critical thinkers and problem solvers. Doing so often involves learning how to discuss and debate difficult topics.”
Marshall added, “Marlette schools try to develop and mentor students so that they reach the best version of themselves. We have come to a resolution that satisfies all interested parties.”
In other board news, the superintendent reported that enrollment at this point seems to be better than expected. As of Sept. 12 there were 707 students attending Marlette Community Schools, but the budget had been prepared for 678.
“There could be more or fewer, but a lot of ups and downs usually occur this time of year. But our official attendance will be determined Wednesday, October 2 during the fourth Friday count.”
The board approved a policy on which students will be allowed to speak at graduation.
New hires for the district include Grace Cook an elementary teacher, Joe Krol a custodian, Hannah Kady the eighth-grade volleyball coach and Lisa Parsons the junior high cheer coach.
