Recently, I went to my first SAD 37 budget meeting. It was truly an experience.

I often hear people say, “What’s wrong with our kids today? They have no respect for grownups.” Well, I witnessed why with my very own eyes. There were many “grownup” people there who were rude, loud and obnoxious and inconsiderate of others’ opinions. This is the example we are setting for our children?

I understand everyone has an opinion and I understand that everyone wants to be able to state it. But there is a proper place, time and manner to do so. And I have to say, when one man was asked to sit, when he refused and when a Maine state trooper had to make him do so while the crowd booed, it made me realize that something is seriously wrong. With a group of 450-plus people, you have to maintain order. If this is not done, how much would actually be accomplished? How many fights would break out?

I guess I was raised to respect others’ opinions, even if you did not agree. I was taught respect for officers of the law. And I was taught discipline, something I think we are afraid to teach our children today. Too many people do not support their district teachers, their district bus drivers, and their district authorities. We placed these people on our board. We should trust them. …

I am currently the president of the Columbia Falls Parent Teacher Club and I experienced some of this “blame game” throughout the school year. There are many of us out there who choose not to become involved, not to help but like to sit back and find fault. I saw this year, many time over, at the budget meeting. The people who were cutting down the ideas and opinions of others, the people who were upset the most with the budget, were not available at the time of planning. Why? They were all welcome to attend. They were all welcome to voice their thoughts and to express their concerns. But again, it is much easier to sit back and complain than to become involved.

I can truly say that I do not agree with the entire budget and with the entire manner in which SAD 37 operates. They are not perfect. They cannot be. They are trying to please everyone and we all know that is not possible. These individuals commit a great deal of time and energy and for the most part do the best they possibly can. And sometimes I wonder, for what? I want what’s best for our children and that means a good education. Nancy L. Bailey Columbia Falls