(Re: “The Mirror vs. education reform” and “Want to reshape Federal Way’s future? Focus on schools”):

I am a parent who has worked in many Federal Way schools and also has children in the district’s schools. I dialogue on a weekly basis with other parents who have school age children both here and in other districts.

The problems in education aren’t to be blamed on teachers. We are in an age where teachers are increasingly asked to do more than “teach” our children, which is really what they are paid to do, and truth be told, would like to be able to do.

While I agree much can be done to improve Federal Way schools and the opportunities within them, supporting teachers in being able to do their job is one of the solutions. As parents, we can send our children to school with an attitude of learning, respect and appreciation for the people and opportunities they have there. When children are sent to school lacking behavior and life skills they should be learning at home, it takes away from everyone’s talent and time, and it’s unfortunately a current educational reality.

For their part, school administrators and leaders can stand firm in providing an exemplary environment for children in our schools. If students aren’t given standards of accountability, there is opportunity for accountability to not be chosen.

In response to The Mirror’s view with its editorial, the newspaper is correct on many levels. Tacoma’s Hilltop school students and leaders, local business owners, community leaders and residents have spent the last several years working together on a community park project, and the results are amazing. If we would take the lessons their community has learned and put them into practice in Federal Way, we would create excellence for our families and city.

Federal Way is a beautiful area with much to offer. Residents collaborating on our talents to improve our city, supporting each other to succeed and making sure money is being spent efficiently would all be part of having a great community.

Nadia Moore, Federal Way