Recently my fellow board member Dr. Udo Ufomadu wrote an editorial in The Selma Times-Journal that I believe does not represent the views of the majority of board members. His point of view could quite possibly have sent a message of fear to the parents and students of Selma City Schools with regards to the discussions around school closings.

Dr. Ufomadu’s solution to the current financial issues was what certainly appears to be a threat of discontinuing all extracurricular activities (football, cheerleading, etc) at the public schools if the proposed schools are not closed in two years. This tactic of fear rather than facts has been used before and is always rooted in politics, which he said he is against. With that being exposed for what it really is let’s look at the facts.

Selma Superintendent of Education Donald Jefferson said in the recent work session he intends to offer only one proposal; his way or no way. He continues to be oblivious to any other board suggestions or compromise.

The recommendation he verbally made at the work session was to close Phoenix, Byrd and School of Discovery effective with the 2013 school year. In communications to the board he touted savings of $500,000 per year would be achieved with these closings. His math simply does not add up to me.

The majority of the savings in Jefferson’s numbers come from reducing employees. Funds for school employees come from the State of Alabama funding, not local funds, so no savings are found there as teacher units are mandated and fully funded by the state (prior to proration and without ability to reduce work force). Further, he emphatically stated he would not close the buildings and would continue to keep them functional.

No savings there either. So in reality there would be very little savings (if any) in this recommendation, only disruption to the children we are sworn to serve. It is painfully obvious to me politics must be the real motivation for his actions and unfortunately now the actions of Dr. Ufomadu.

This is confirmed as he will not tell the board what his long term plans are for these buildings after being asked repeatedly by several board members. Why all the secrets and unanswered questions about his long-term plans?

During the work session Brenda Obomanu made a suggestion to combine Knox and Byrd and close the Knox campus. Her logic is not based in politics but rather in sound research and personal visits. She toured both campuses along with the surrounding neighborhoods. Mrs. Obomanu determined from her observations and discussions in her grassroots approach that Byrd School is the better campus for our children. She also suggested a new name for the combined school campus that would celebrate new beginnings and a spirit of community. What an outstanding idea and great solutions offered by this committed board member.

Keeping in mind that extensive repairs are needed at Knox and Byrd has been recently renovated is yet another very valid reason for her recommendation.

Mrs. Obamanu also suggested the two principles at Knox and Byrd work together for next year as co-principles. This would help the current principle at Knox learn from a 30-plus year veteran educator, who has been at Byrd for 10 years. As both are tenured educators they keep their salary and their job in addition to the children being in a better environment and superior structure. As a seasoned educator in multiple systems, I respect Mrs. Obamanu’s opinion and suggestions; a real win-win idea for all — especially the children.

Jefferson, who was adamant about his suggestions and would not consider any alternate suggestion, quickly shut down this suggestion of compromise.

The pleadings of the parents in town hall meetings and his own board will not change his mind, but he must have the support of the board to implement his recommendation. Hopefully he will not have a majority of votes. Keep in mind the board also has to vote to discontinue all extra curricular activities and I am confident he will not win this vote either should it be proposed.

It is evident more study is needed before this important decision can be made. With the action over a year away there is plenty of time to consider the options and collect better data.

Public education in Alabama will have many changes in the near future. Legislation is moving rapidly that will most certainly affect how Selma City Schools operate now, and in the years to come.

Jefferson has assured the board there is no immediate need for additional funds by making this action effective two years from now so let’s get some firm numbers, review legislative changes and diligently work on enforcing zoning issues for the upcoming school year. Perhaps then the Selma City School Board can make an informed decision rather than one based in threats, fear, emotions and politics.

Holland Powell

Selma City School Board