Published: September 16, 2008 08:59 pm            

LETTER: Wilson does do the right thing

This is a very simple response to the recent guest commentary written by a Wilson resident. In his commentary regarding a recent student-athlete meeting held at Wilson High School, the writer stated that “not once did the administration tell me that my child or any other student would be safe and that certain activities would not be tolerated.” Following is a transcript featuring excerpts from speeches that both Superintendent Michael Wendt and high school principal Dan Johnson made that night, to over 500 attendees. The meeting was videotaped for students to view throughout the year, and the statements made by both administrators are verbatim. 

Johnson: “This year, I’ll be visiting each of the athletic teams at the beginning of each season to reinforce two major points that need to be fully understood. First, any type of hazing, bullying, intimidation, physical or verbal abuse, etc. will absolutely not be tolerated or condoned. Second, you have my word that I will address any concerns that students or parents bring to my attention. It is imperative that you contact me if you or if one of your friends are experiencing any problems. I absolutely promise to address the concern and get back to you. I know our coaches and other staff members have made the same commitment to the students as well.”

Wendt: “As a result of the events of last April, all of our staff members, parents and students have a heightened sense of awareness regarding the issues surrounding the expectation on how student athletes, and student in general, treat one another. As a district, we’ve worked hard to ensure that your children will be safe and we will continue to do our best to ensure that the highest level of safety and supervision is provided on a continual basis, both in the classroom, on the bus and on the playing field.”

As a resident, and former teacher and coach in the Wilson community, I am hopeful that people will begin meeting each other in the middle and seeking a resolution to the constant state of tension that has engrossed our small town. As illustrated in the letter to the editor, there is a lot of room for misinterpretation of what people actually say and do, depending on what viewpoint you hold. Despite the consistent scrutiny of the media and divisive external pressures, the students, teachers, staff and administrators at Wilson Central School prevail on a daily basis.

Succeeding under these conditions is an accomplishment in and of itself, and I applaud the entire WCS family for continuing to rise up and overcome the unfortunate challenges and tragedies of the past year.

Jeffrey Dabill is a Wilson resident.

        

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