To the editor:

The departure of Dr. Scott Mauk from our South Whidbey school system is unfortunate. That it follows on the earlier departures of Jamie Boyd, another respected administrator, is cause for concern. If these educators were the proverbial “dead wood,” or occupied positions that could no longer be financially sustained, it would be one thing, but both are highly esteemed in the community.

Indeed, as head of the alternative Bayview High School for many years and more recently assistant principal of the high school, Dr. Mauk may be considered one of South Whidbey’s most creative, dedicated and beloved educators. The public response of shock and dismay from ordinary citizens, parents and students at Dr. Mauk’s departure ought to be a signal to anyone who cares about our schools that something is amiss.

There are those more knowledgeable about these events than I who say that the administrative decisions prompting these resignations may serve as a sign to other administrators and teachers that they had best keep their heads on their desks.

I don’t know to what degree this is true. But as one whose career in education spans 50 years as a teacher, administrator, teacher educator and school board chair, I know that in challenging times harsh action can pass for strength, and fear can trump the collective imagination that is most needed.

Why did these administrators leave? Why did not a single board member even raise a question when they approved Dr. Mauk’s resignation?

The Whidbey school system has many structural challenges at this time. Ironically, it is precisely at times like this that wee need our most creative people. When our finest educators depart, it is the responsibility of all of us — and especially our school board members who represent us — to pay attention.

Larent A. Parks Daloz, Ed.D

Clinton