Editor, Smithfield Times

I wish to extend heartfelt thanks and appreciation to School Board Chair Denise Tynes for the job she is doing and has done well. The Isle of Wight school system has had many accomplishments under her tenure. Among them are the increase in attendance and graduation rates of high school students, the introduction of technology into the school system, higher ranking in the state of Virginia from Number 41 to 14, a Hampton Roads ranking of Number 4, an increase in school participation by having community involvement, awards won by the school system and many others.

There are many sacrifices she and her family have made while serving as a public official. She has been a strong advocate for all the students in the Isle of Wight school system. I attended the forums and read the platforms published in the newspapers. A lot of promises and changes were stated. I am a retired educator and, in my opinion, most were not realistic.

There are specific duties for the principal, teachers, school personnel and School Board members. There may be certain occasions for collaboration between them. Most of the time, each should do the job assigned and stay in their lane. School Board m embers should do the job they were elected to do and stay in their lane as well.

Hazel C. Edwards
Smithfield