The "underlying" issues

Several people commenting have referred to long-term or underlying issues in our community around schools: That our school system has historically struggled with conflict around what's best for our district. To my memory, our current situation is the worst yet, but I do recall prior significant issues with superintendents and school boards in my 32 years living here.

I recall years ago Lebanon was known for having some of the highest teacher/administrative salaries in the state, but my understanding is this is no longer true. I know that the state-mandated unification years ago, that sucked resources and local control from outlying elementary school districts and swallowed them into one Lebanon Community Schools District, left many of us angry and upset, but that was many years ago. I wouldn't imagine this is still an issue, though it seemed there were more resources in rural schools before this change, which was mandated by state law.

But there have been many other factors impacting our schools over the years. Mills closed and families struggled, creating more stress on school systems dealing with students more in need of parenting, nurturing and social skills than ever before. Monies available for schools are down, so there are fewer dollars and yet more services needed than ever before. Our economy is more diversified these days, but we still suffer high unemployment rates.

But these changes don't seem like what one would call "underlying issues" driving conflict. It would be great if people would write on the nature of the "underlying issues" they see continuing to plague us. Maybe some of you will shed some light.