Our school prides itself on community. One of the “Statesmen Stars” stands for community. But, the frivolous regulation of the exchange of money within the school challenges our ability to sustain this so-called “community”.
As an active member of the Marshall community, I have experienced countless instances of frustration with rules surrounding the transfer of money. Whether it is SGA’s inability to fundraise during Learn, or issues surrounding the collection of club dues, a recent event has left me embittered with FCPS and state policy surrounding the collection of money.
Former teacher James MacIndoe’s son, Finn, has been in the ICU for several weeks without a concrete diagnosis. Hospital bills are costly. Although MacIndoe moved to Colorado at the end of the school year, he is still a beloved member of the Marshall community. But, regulations surrounding the transfer of money within the school prevent teachers and students from organizing endorsed fundraisers to support MacIndoe.
The FCPS regulations meant to protect the community have instead crippled our ability to support a Statesman in need. I understand financial regulation is necessary; however, it is important to consider what we are sacrificing in the interest of financial accountability.
We are sacrificing our community by preventing Marshall staff and students from collecting money to support a teacher who gave so much to this school. We are sacrificing our humanity; instead of doing the morally right thing, we are abiding by a needlessly regulatory piece of legislation. Above all, it is important to understand the relationship that we are sacrificing. Financial regulations and their inability to assist community members in need create tension between students, staff and administration.
It is important for all levels of a school system to trust and respect one another; however, I find it difficult to respect administration that enacts and enforces rules that do more harm than good, and deny assistance to someone in need.
-Ella Tynch, senior