School Trip Cancellation Was Justified

To the Editor:

In a letter to The Bee (9/28), William Sampson criticized Diane Sherlock, principal of the Middle School, for canceling the eighth grade spring trip to Washington, D.C., and Gettysburg. In light of the terrorist attacks in New York and Washington D.C., Mr Sampson cited a premature, knee-jerk reaction in canceling the trip.

I must applaud Mr Sampson in his defense of the ideals of democracy and freedom. He is correct in demonstrating to our children that we do not succumb to terrorists attacks.

However, I also applaud Ms Sherlock’s decision to cancel the spring trip. I know that concern for student safety is of high priority. Yet the logistics involved in preparing for the trip involve the coordination of transportation, lodging, and daily schedules. Advance planning may be difficult due to anticipated heightened security. As Mr Sampson notes, some parents may elect to have their children forego the trip in the spring making cancellation more difficult.

Ms Sherlock made the right decision. She is a qualified school administrator who views recent events and the effect on our students as a professional educator. We are all making adjustments to our decisions following the events of September 11. Ms Sherlock has made hers.

Changes in school activities are not new and are sometimes dependent upon changes in life. Years ago, students brought sling-shots to school. Today, we are discussing metal detectors at school entrances and police assigned to “hall duty.”

Mr Sampson, you are to be commended for the content of your recent letter. I am certain that many parents share your thoughts.

 Ms Sherlock, thanks for your forthright concern. While they are your students; they are our children. You and your staff at Middle School are doing a commendable job in helping to maintain the balance.

Allan L. Fiorey

77 Brushy Hill Road, Newtown                                    October 2, 2001