Franklin blessed to have King on school board

Published 10:07 am Saturday, October 22, 2011

To the Editor:

This letter is in response to the article “Colorblind leadership” (Sunday, Oct. 15). Kudos to Steve Stewart on such a great article.

Mrs. Edna King is a person of integrity, as she displays great concern for all students, black as well as white, within any school system. She is a person of much knowledge and should serve as a mentor to any student who is willing to learn and become a future leader.

She was my mentor and teacher back in the 1960s when she was an instructor in the Surry County School System. During the early days of her teaching career, she displayed a genuine concern for all students. She is indeed “competent, passionate, feisty and dedicated to any task she undertakes.” Her genuine concern and love for mankind is exemplified is every aspect of her demeanor.

A wise decision was made on behalf of those City Council members who voted to fill a void on the School Board with one as reputable as Mrs. King. Even though little attention was given to her qualifications, she beat all odds and was appointed to the board. Her work and dedication will be long remembered by those she serves because of her sincerity and integrity.

As stated in the article, “Way too much energy in this community is wasted on race-based concerns.” It is time for us to come together and be united as one, concentrating on what is in the best interest of the community as a whole and not just concentrating on minor issues that tend to draw us apart.

Former City Councilman Mark Fetherolf seems to have a vision — one that will bring justice and fairness and bond our community together with one common goal in mind. I concur with the statement “colorblind leadership.” All communities, as well as our country, need more of it.

Carroll Holland
Franklin