Charter takeover of schools makes no sense
I am not a businessman or an educator, but what may occur in several Sarasota schools makes no sense (‘Hostile takeover”: Charter operator files to occupy 3 Sarasota schools,” Oct. 10).
What business or organization would give away unused space or allow a takeover of an operation without requiring the new organization to pay for building maintenance costs and supplied services costs?
Apparently, our legislators feel comfortable allowing our public schools to try to educate our students on a severely tilted field.
It is also my understanding that charter schools often do not have to meet all the legislated educational requirements set for public school education.
Is this considered fair competition?
Our legislators must do a better job of fairly treating our essential public education system – and appropriately protecting and using our taxpayer dollars!
Richard Wolbarsht, Sarasota
New ‘Welcome’ signs for Publix?
So will Publix now have signs in their parking lots that read: “Don’t forget your bulletproof vest along with your shopping bags”? (“Guns welcome at Publix in Sarasota? Florida ruling sparks policy shift at grocery giant,” Oct. 10)
Just wondering.
Joan Dalto, Nokomis
Democrats in disarray
Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi frequently says the Democratic Party’s “tent is big enough for everybody,” and that its broad coalition has the ability to accommodate a wide range of views.
That is precisely why the party is in disarray and can’t get broad support among its own voters.
Most members want secure borders, don’t want men in woman’s sports and want criminal laws enforced, even for petty crimes.
Ironically, the Democratic Party keeps shifting to the left and away from mainstream America.
It is even supporting a democratic socialist for mayor of New York City.
President Donald Trump is unattractive in many ways but on the whole, he still looks better for America than all the left-leaning Democrat candidates.
Thomas G. Moore, Bradenton
Sarasota conference will tackle climate issues
It should not take catastrophic storms like Hurricane Milton and Helene and Tropical Storm Debby for people to prioritize and take action against the rising effects of climate change.
Climate scientists have been warning that events like hurricanes, tropical storms and even heavy rains are being made worse by climate change.
These climate-induced events have taken a devastating toll, claiming many lives and causing billions of dollars in property damage.
Everyone is talking about the cost to rebuild homes, businesses and infrastructure, but there is more to it than money.
During a historic conference last fall, Sarasota’s Climate Adaptation Center focused on climate and human health, and this year’s conference will zero in on the impacts of climate change on biodiversity.
On Nov.13, the Climate Adaptation Center will hold its 5th Annual Florida Climate Conference.
During the conference, leading scientists and biodiversity experts will explore how climate warming is reshaping Florida’s ecosystems.
They will share insights into how biodiversity loss affects everything from agriculture to tourism, and what we can do to adapt.
For information on attending the conference, visit theclimateadaptationcenter.org.
Bob Bunting, CEO, Climate Adaptation Center, Sarasota
This article originally appeared on Sarasota Herald-Tribune: Sarasota schools shouldn’t bend knee to charter operators | Letters
Reporting by Sarasota Herald-Tribune / Sarasota Herald-Tribune
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