SORENSEN: Another successful event held

Sorensen Magnet School for the Arts & Humanities celebrated another successful parent, teacher and community auction event on March 23 called “Viva Sorensen.” The annual auction-soiree raises funds to specifically support the additional programs and activities that make our magnet school unique. We could not thrive as an outstanding school without the support of our staff, parents, community and our school board.

Unfortunately, over the last several days, the auction and who attended or did not attend has become political fodder. The Coeur d’Alene School Board did not receive individual invitations to the auction. Given that board members do not receive compensation for their service, we recognize asking the board members to attend fundraisers at all 17 of our schools is a daunting request.

The school board has indeed shown support for Sorensen by advocating for the passage of this spring’s Maintenance & Operations Levy and last summer’s School Bond. They hosted a “community chat” at Sorensen in February and supported the expeditious move of the administration offices to a new location so that the demolition of the old district office remains on schedule to make way for the Sorensen renovation project.

We have many active parents at Sorensen and the school would not be what it is without their tireless efforts. One parent chose to write a “My Turn” that was published in last Saturday’s Coeur d’Alene Press. Individual parents do not speak on behalf of the school or the school district.

We are saddened that focus has been taken away from the positive activities of our school. We have a rule in our school district that we keep our schools and school-related activities and events free of politics. We hope everyone is reminded of this as we work together to keep Sorensen an amazing school both in our academic performance and in our community spirit.

JANET ACKERMAN

Principal, Sorensen Magnet School for the Arts & Humanities