Letter to the Editor: School Board Candidates - Arrogance vs. Common Sense

I went to the School Board forum fully expecting to support candidates Kasle and Grodsky. I left wondering “What was I thinking.” Their conduct was both disgraceful and disheartening.

Despite his youth and admitted flaws, the third candidate, Andrew Cegielski was the only one who was thoughtful, respectful and showed any concern for the taxpayer. The other two acted like adolescent bullies, especially lawyer Grodsky who was making faces, snide comments under his breath, and joking with Kasle while Cegielski, who was sitting right next to him, was talking. It was one of the most disgusting displays of rude conduct I’ve seen in a public forum.

To make matters worse, Kasle and Grodsky were unapologetic about their agenda; they are union sympathizers who support tax increases to finance the bloated salaries and benefits of Nicolet teachers and to hell with taxpayers.

Mr. Cegielski was the only candidate who advocated fiscal restraint. He made valid points concerning the school budget which were arrogantly mocked by the other two. He correctly maintained, for example, that the $10 million dollar tax increase the School Board is seeking would have been unnecessary had the Board dealt decisively with the issue of teacher compensation which makes up 85 percent of the school budget! That’s not political rhetoric, that’s common sense and simple math.

As was incessantly pointed out by Kasle and Grodsky, Mr. Cegielski made some bad choices several years ago with drinking and driving, but he was forthright about it and took full responsibility for his actions. I believe what he said and I think he deserves the benefit of doubt, especially since he showed he is the more mature and thoughtful candidate and the only one of the three who would fight for taxpayers.

Larry Booth
Fox Point