To the editor:

At the school candidates’ forum on Wednesday evening the lower level of the library was packed to capacity. This demonstrates that many in our community realize the importance of November’s election and want to make an informed choice. So many offered questions that those hosting the event decided beforehand that it would last till 7:30 rather than 7. It lasted till 7:10.

Before the event started the hosts stated that not all questions could be asked because of time constraints so they would have to omit or combine similar questions. That was reasonable. Topics covered included such things as school busing and what the candidates felt are the positive things that are being accomplished in the district, as well as the candidates’ visions for our schools.

One would think that the concerns expressed by 150 members of our community through a petition would have been one of the three questions given to all candidates by the hosts of the event. “Is it appropriate to include instruction regarding gender identity and sexual orientation in our K-3 classrooms?” The petition asked this of each member of our current school board several months ago. To this date none have chosen to give an answer.

Even though there would have been time, it’s notable that that question (which was not only in the petition itself but also submitted by someone in attendance) was not included. Why was this subject which is of obvious concern to so many members of the community omitted? This would have been a prime opportunity for all in New Ulm to find out where the incumbents stand.

The public should be concerned that our current school board has consciously chosen not to answer a question of concern not only to many in New Ulm but all over our state and our nation. The fact that the League of Women Voters chose not to ask the question leaves a deafening silence. That silence speaks volumes. Vote for those who want to leave such instruction in the hands of parents.

Mary Thom

New Ulm