I found the following comment made by School Superintendent Wendy Hyer offensive (Western News, Sept. 8, New Penticton school year can be taxing on parents).
The article states, “In some instances, Hyer said poor spending decisions made by parents have possibly contributed to a student’s inability to possess school supplies.”
It is not the school superintendent’s job to speculate how parents spend their money, she does not live in our houses and see our bills. Back to school time is very stressful for many parents and guardians and the last thing anyone needs is to feel judged by those who are in a position of power in the school system.
It was an unprofessional comment and I am sure it made many people who have used the school supply program feel self conscious.
Sticking to general comments about the success of the program and the generosity of Telus and Staples to fund such a program in our community is far more appropriate than making assumptions about how parents prioritize their spending.
Viktoria Sutter
Penticton