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Act 51 could end up
hurting isle students

I would like to publicly thank reporter Susan Essoyan for taking the time and concern to present the story about my family's experience with the Department of Education, specifically Waimanalo Intermediate School (Star-Bulletin, Sept. 5). Essoyan spent much time in conversation with my son and me in producing this article. Her efforts to be a fair and objective reporter are evident, but relevant and crucial facts were ommited.

It is important that parents understand that they really have no say in the education of their children in our public schools -- and no source of appeal. I was informed by state DOE Deputy Superintendent Clayton Fujie that the principal's word is final, end of story, no appeal. Act 51 provides for this.

Waimanalo Intermediate Principal Susan Hummel refused to consider any supporting evidence to retain my son that was presented to her, including information and opinion presented by Reynold Feldman, retired university professor and dean, author and developer of curriculum. Feldman also is very familiar with my son and the family dynamics, as he has been a spiritual guide and mentor to him.

When an attorney representing our family asked Hummel upon what she was basing her decision not to allow Travis to repeat the eighth grade, she responded citing "professional experience and experience with the child." When it was pointed out that Hummel had previously stated that she had no real experience with the child, she responded that it was due to her not having any experience with him that tells her he is prepared to move on. Much deep thought, conversation and research went into our family's decision to retain my son in the eighth grade.

While explaining to Hummel that my son is now starting to internalize the motivation, confidence and desire necessary to reach his academic potential and earn the grades necessary to be accepted into universities, Hummel made the statement in front of two doctors and a lawyer that by the time he is applying for college, grades probably won't even be considered. Ninth grade is when grades do start to count, make no mistake about it. It is not uncommon for private schools across the nation to retain students at the intermediate school level. Is our school system here that far ahead of private schools? Or is it a lack of authentic concern for our keiki?

Why should parents be satisfied with their children "meeting the standards," when under the right circumstances, with proper nurturing and cultivation, they can far exceed the standards? The current status of our public education system clearly indicates that improvement is needed. If the student, parents and group of teachers are willing to work together as a team in trying a different approach, what is the harm? I offered to sign a waiver releasing the DOE from any liability that might result.

We were told by Windward District administrators that nothing would be gained by the child repeating the eighth grade, as he had been through it already. Our position remains that you can put your foot in the same river, but never in the same water.

Parents, beware! Act 51 allows for principals' decisions to be final, with no source of appeal. Should our administrators have greater authority than those in our judicial system?

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