Whenever there is an interest in parent involvement in schools, the meter does not rise high on the chart. We are not known as a community of large school involvement.

We need to make that change and we need to make that change now. I know that it is hard sometimes, but you must decide now to visit your schools and talk to your board members. It doesn’t matter what district, they all work for the best education of our children.

There are things happening in this parish that deserve our utmost attention.

We have been slipping away from progress and growth for too long. The last decade has been down hill. Our children deserve better.

Administration has refused to get the public involved through the same process used when they have to pass taxes that need your approval.

What happened to using the media and technologies to communicate when drastic decisions are decided on with how tax dollars are used in our schools.

In recent days the Justice Department has visited schools in our parish. Now, they are hoping to hear from parents about your concerns. Remember, unless we talk they will not be walking through our parish for some time. They are here. Bend their ears with what I hear daily.

There is a Parent Forum Dec. 19 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Tchoupitoulas Chapel on River Road in Reserve.

Talking may not be your thing. Write down your complaints and concerns. We need to stop the foolishness. Some say that we do not care about our children. If your neighbor needs a ride, pick them up. No sitter, bring your children with you.

To my former students of civics, remember, the best way to see a difference is to take a “Stand and Make a Difference.”

The future of education for the children of St. John the Baptist Parish is not the responsibility of the 11 Board Members and Administration alone. We must demand to be included, and then we must get more involved.

See you at the meeting.

— Carolyn Jean Batiste, LaPlace