Response from AEA Executive Director

Just received this response from Rich Nagel, executive director of the AEA, regarding his organization's opposition to the people being empowered to recall elected school board members.

"Basically, we think the passage of HB1551 would be more de-stabilizing to the public schools than stabilizing. Every time someone gets upset with a board member, they will start to recall him or her.

"Additionally, recall proposals should apply to all elected officials, not just one particular office.

"There are other reasons this is a bad bill, but this represents two important ones.

"As far as a public debate is concerned, we have no interest in one.

"Thanks for you comments.

"Rich Nagel
Executive Director
Arkansas Education Association
1500 West 4th Street
Little Rock, AR 72201
Office Phone: 501-375-4611 Ext. 104
Cell Phone: 501-658-6906
Great Public Schools for Every Student"

And my response:

"Thank you for your response, Mr. Nagel

"Please support your supposition that 'every time someone gets upset with a school board member, they will start to recall him or her' with examples of how many times that has happened in the state with other elected offices, most of which are already subject to recall.

"I understand how with the current low voter turnout September school elections, one might reasonably view the 35% of voters in the last election petition signature threshhold as too easy. Does that mean you would support moving school elections to the higher turnout primary or general elections?

"As for your lack of interest in a public debate, I respectfully ask that you reconsider so members of the legislature and the citizens of Arkansas may benefit from the healthy exchange of perspectives and learn of the other reasons you consider HB 1551 a 'bad bill'."