Dear _____________
The purchase of “The Cultural Proficiency Journey: Moving Beyond Ethical Barriers Toward Profound School Change" and the subsequent requirement that every staff member of OPS read it and do the self-test to see if they are "progressive" enough is not merely a case of over-the-top fiscal irresponsibility -- though it certainly is that. It is also a case of bureaucratic bullying, an insistence that the psycho-babble of the far left become required indoctrination of the people who are in charge of our community's children.
The Omaha World-Herald in its news story about this policy used this understatement, "The book by Virginia education consultants could raise some eyebrows with its viewpoints." Uh, really? However, when you denigrate Western civilization, insist that American government and institutions “channel wealth and power to white people,” urge educators to become social activists in liberal causes, and denounce America's schools of being guilty of a "systemic oppression" of racial minorities, women, and homosexuals, then "raised eyebrows" are not nearly enough of a reaction.
Particularly when you remember that the School Board's policy here is that every single OPS employee be forced to endure this sensitivity re-training. And when School Board President Sandra Jensen admits she didn't even read the book before ordering its purchase. This is really incredible.
Please reverse course immediately. Apologize to the community for offending THEIR cultural sensitivities and for spending their money in such a foolish manner. And rescind this order ASAP.
Thank you for considering our complaint.
Denny & Claire Hartford
(Address Given)
