2 weeks Ago
School librariesWith April being School Library Month, I am writing to share my strong support for school libraries and to highlight the vital role they play in the educational development of our students.While many may see school libraries simply as spaces for borrowing books, they are far more than that. School libraries are hubs for learning, creativity and personal growth.
They serve as essential resources that allow students to access a wide variety of materials that broaden their knowledge and support their academic success. These materials range from literature and research tools to technology. School libraries also teach critical skills such as research, digital literacy and critical thinking.
Perhaps even more importantly, school libraries provide a welcoming, inclusive space for all students, regardless of their background or circumstance. Every student has unique learning needs, and school libraries serve as a crucial resource in meeting these diverse needs. For students who may not have access to educational resources at home, libraries offer a safe, supportive environment where they can catch up on schoolwork, receive personalized guidance, or explore subjects that interest them beyond the classroom.
Libraries foster a love for learning that extends beyond textbooks and tests, sparking curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of reading.School libraries are true treasures within our educational system.Carrie Etheridge, ChesapeakeBoilingA common analogy for characterizing ignorance of potential danger is that of a frog in a pot of water that slowly heated to boiling.
The frog does not realize it is in danger until the water is nearly boiling and then cannot escape.We are in the same danger as a nation right now. The president’s deluge of executive orders, his insistence upon blind loyalty to his policies within the Republican Party, and his attacks on the judiciary should remind us that those who do not read and comprehend history will repeat it.
Is it worth an arithmetically impossible approach to tariffs, reckless budget cuts in the name of efficiency, or ignorance of the First Amendment to give away our freedom? Since the president openly declares public disagreement offensive and possibly illegal, do only 50% (and actually less if the percentage of the electorate that participated in the last election is accounted for) have a right to express their views?If there is a “radical left” there is also a “radical right.” I cannot be “the frog” and I would like the citizenry of this country to oppose that fate as well.Dr.
Mark C. Nesselrode, Virginia BeachDaylightPresident Donald Trump has proposed a permanent change to Daylight Saving Time, saying it’s popular. With whom?This was tried in the 1970s and failed miserably.
At that time we quickly found out that in the midwinter there were not enough hours of daylight in the plan to bring students to school safely.Elementary students in Chesapeake begin their day at 7:35. This means they are walking to school or waiting for their bus before 7 a.
m. If we switch to DST the sun will be rising in midwinter at 8 a.m.
Unfortunately decisions are being made without regard to consequences. The consequence of this decision could be a child’s life.Linda DiGiosaffatte, ChesapeakeDEIFrighteningly, Virginia’s public educational institutions are cowering and rolling over in eager submission to President Donald Trump’s reversal of programs respecting and encouraging diversity, equity and inclusion in America.
Two quotes come to mind:Edmund Burke: “The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing.”Former Virginia Lt. Gov.
Henry Howell: “Something more than Santa Claus is slipping around in the dark.”What are we teaching students when we let a Sharpie-wielding bully win?Jay Moore, PortsmouthSign up for Viewpoints, an opinion newsletter.
