TEACHER OF THE YEAR: Political attacks need to stop

Less than 24 hours after the announcement of Karen Lauritzen as the Idaho Teacher of the Year for 2023, the political attacks began. This accomplished, thoughtful, compassionate, and caring teacher is being falsely accused of the most ridiculous conspiracy theories imaginable.

Stop it people. Just stop it. She does not deserve the hateful accusations of small-minded individuals who seek only to score political points by dragging down our most prized institutions through fear and ignorance.

These attacks have nothing to do with Ms. Lauritzen and everything to do with power and control. Ignore them, don’t listen to them. Instead, honor the integrity and leadership represented by Karen Lauritzen and the thousands of dedicated educators, administrators and staff members who are proud to call her a colleague. If “woke” means respecting all people, having compassion for all people, and treating all people the same, then “woke” is something that every person should seek to achieve. We should all wear it as a badge of honor.

LEE WALLACE

Post Falls