Community members plan to voice their concerns about a Hollidaysburg School District board member.

 

There’s been an outcry against Lois Kaneshiki since September 14th, when she voted “No” to a permanent substitute teacher for a kindergarten class at Foot of Ten Elementary School.

 

During a phone interview in September, Kaneshiki elaborated on her decision.

 

“Sometimes kindergartens are just babysitting for parents and I think that’s true in some respects, in some cases,” Kaneshiki said.

 

She explained that she said that on behalf of parents who may have that perspective.

 

As the controversy continues, she declined to be recorded Tuesday, but said on the phone, she stands by her decision and research from the Home School Legal Defense Association, which states early learning doesn’t compare to higher education.

 

Elizabeth Campbell, an experienced educator in higher learning, substituting, and home-schooling, said it’s important to differentiate learning environments.

 

“You have to understand that what you’re working with is a community with education in a public school system and your research needs to be how can we make the public system that I’m on the school board for, better?” Campbell said.

 

Kaneshiki said despite the public’s response, her stance on the issue remains and if anything she’s more passionate about her beliefs.

 

A letter has surfaced in Blair County, inviting people to peacefully protest at the local Republican Headquarters.

 

Kaneshiki said protesting outside of the building is inappropriate, adding that she’s been available to the community.

 

 “She has the right to her opinion as do the people that are protesting and have the right to their opinions. And I think they need to think about that when they vote,” Campbell said.

 

Campbell said she hopes Kaneshiki would be more direct with the public.

 

 “I’d like to see her talk about it on camera, I think that would’ve been nice…I think when you see people in person or you’re looking at them you have more of a feel for what they’re telling you,” Kaneshiki said.

 

Campbell said she also hopes early learning teachers are given more credit in all districts.

 

“They’re working so hard and they’re already overwhelmed at times and when people make comments like that about them , it has to hurt,” Campbell said.

 

The protest is scheduled for Tuesday, October 11th at 7 p.m..