Yesterday I received many emails from people throughout the community affirming their support for me and what I've been doing, despite the smear campaign. It was extremely moving and exactly what I needed. Thank you all for your support.
With permission, I'm including one of the messages I received from an anonymous teacher in LASD schools.
Hello Mr. Cortright,
We haven't met, but I've been following your comments on Facebook as well as reading your blog. I want to thank you for putting yourself "in the line of fire" to run for the county board of education. I'm a teacher in the LASD, so I can't post anything publicly, but my husband and I both grew up in Los Altos and went to LASD schools. It's not at all the same community it used to be. While it is still a wonderful place, with terrific kids and parents, the sense of community has truly faded. I appreciate that you care so much about your community.
I think all community members are (or should be) responsible for being involved in the education of our children. Many people like to say, "It takes a village to raise a child," when it suits their purpose, but few are willing to live that way if it doesn't seem to affect them directly. You have had to endure many insults and attacks on your character to stand up for what you believe is right. One of the things I teach my students is that they will never regret doing the right thing and you are a great example of that. I just wanted you to know how much I (and many others) appreciate your commitment.
I want to say something else that I think is important. I love being a parent and always wanted to be a parent, but I believe it is irresponsible for someone to have children because of outside pressure. I believe it is even more irresponsible for others to judge or criticize those who choose not to become parents. It's ludicrous to think a non-parent can't care about and advocate for children. Sorry if that seems dramatic, but I feel very strongly about being judged by others for doing what we feel is best for our lives, while not harming someone else.
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