Our Opinion: Trial underscores need to change school district culture

The Jefferson City Public Schools district recently experienced a trial - in more ways than one.

A trial in Cole County Circuit Court resulted in a jury awarding actual and punitive damages to a former teacher who sued the district, alleging age and gender discrimination.

Superintendent Larry Linthacum said, with reference to the court of public opinion, "We weren't winning either way." He characterized the trial as "a painful experience, but a learning experience."

Credit the superintendent for not being defensive or making excuses.

Instead, he said the district's culture - and, specifically, the grievance policy - must be improved.

"We need," he said, " to have an environment where folks feel comfortable without fearing repercussions. If they don't, we need to find out why."

We agree wholeheartedly.

The district has endured a tumultuous period that has included an exodus of veteran teachers; lawsuits; and an outcry at public meetings regarding undisciplined students, demoralized teachers and a disengaged administration.

Administrators - including the former superintendent and high school principal - have retired or resigned, and a number of school board members have chosen not to seek re-election.

The change in leadership advances the possibility of improving policies, communication and the overall culture.

When friction and mistrust exist between administrators and teachers, the focus on education fades and students suffer.

"We have to lead, not manage," Linthacum said. "We're preparing our students for a better tomorrow. We have 1,251 employees, and we want to have a culture that all those folks feel like they're difference-makers. We're going to address concerns, and we have and will continue to address and concerns that need to be addressed that are getting in the way of a positive learning environment."

Education is the common denominator uniting school district board members, administrators, teachers, parents, patrons and students.

When any one of them has a concern about education, the concern must not be dismissed or rejected unless and until it has been heard and understood.

Courtesy, trust and respect are essential elements of shared strength, reflected in Linthacum's phrase, "We're stronger together."