As I read some of the news articles over the last few weeks, I’m reminded how important it is that our schools remain a neutral place where any child or student can feel safe and welcome. https://elizabethforowatonnaschools.com/in-the-news/
We all recognize that our students will differ in many ways, and I think we can agree that education is the main focus and of utmost importance for our schools. What constitutes education may vary somewhat, but I hope that we all agree that a basic foundational education includes reading, writing, and mathematics. Each day, there are many “spinning plates” that need to be moving for optimal learning. Some of these plates are put into motion by our teachers, but many of the plates are set in motion by families. And sometimes the plates are missing, or they get left alone, sometimes they come crashing down, expectedly or unexpectedly. I understand that there are many challenges that face our students and teachers each day, but I don’t believe that we need a sign in the window or on the wall that tells our students that they are safe and welcome. We can recognize and support students’ unique gifts, talents, personalities and identities through the relationships we develop with them.
These pictures have been seen in Owatonna schools.
I believe in the right to free speech and the ability to display opinions on personal property. However, in a public school, funded by taxpayers and government, we need to keep personal opinions aside. Students can feel welcome, cared for, and supported by teachers and school staff without incorporating personal and political viewpoints.
Please help me in supporting a neutral, safe, learning environment for all our students.
Elizabeth for Owatonna Schools 
Elizabeth, I totally agree with you. You articulate your point beautifully. Thank you for the continued role that you are playing in our public schools. You are needed and I hope you know and believe that without a doubt.
I hope you are doing well and that you and your family are recovering from the shock of earlier this year.
Love and blessings to you during this Christmas season.
Luane
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Appreciate your genuine care and wisdom Elizabeth!
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Thank you, Elizabeth, for taking a stand against what I consider political agendas. I completely agree that public schools should focus on reading, writing, & ‘rithmetic. People shouldn’t need a sign about a politicized topic to feel welcome. Thank you for all you do to for our schools! It is greatly appreciated!
Shelley
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Although I agree that we are to love all and welcome all, I think if a public school allows these, they must allow for all sorts of political and religious posters from all sorts of viewpoints to be fair to all. Obviously, this isn’t feasible or a good idea. Keep the public school a neutral and safe space for all.
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