Letter to the Editor #1 from Ann Kellogg, Parent,

To the Editor,

As both a parent of children in the Bandon School District and a physician serving our community, I feel compelled to speak out on behalf of our educators—many of whom are being treated unfairly, underpaid, and undervalued.

Bandon’s teachers are the lowest paid in the region, and yet, during stalled negotiations, district leadership continues to offer little more than cost-of-living adjustments. These aren’t real raises—they’re the bare minimum. Worse still, there are troubling reports that union leaders who advocate for their colleagues are being reassigned to different schools or subjects as apparent retaliation. If true, this isn’t just unethical—it’s illegal.

But beyond legality, this is about morality and leadership. Morale among educators is suffering. Many no longer feel heard or supported. And when our teachers are discouraged, our students ultimately pay the price.

As a physician, I believe in service. Leadership—especially in education—should be rooted in the same principle. Servant leadership means putting staff and students first. Our teachers are the heart of the district, and they should be supported, empowered, and respected—not punished for speaking up or pushed to the brink.

I urge the Bandon School Board and superintendent to lead with integrity. Invest in your teachers. Listen to their voices. And remember that our schools will only thrive when those who teach our children feel valued and safe.

Sincerely,

Ann Kellogg

Bandon

Parent in the Bandon School District

Community Physician