When the going gets tough, the “leader” goes running…

I was listening to American Public Media’s Marketplace the other day (I download the podcasts and listen on my iPhone – since I’m almost never home at 6:30pm to listen on WYSO) and heard them talk about what makes a difference to financial markets. It’s only 2 things- ready?

  • Confidence
  • Perception

That’s it.

So, when people make fun of the ideas that I present for Dayton Public Schools– involving new technology, new ways of organizing tutoring and sports, and integrating with the City recreation programs- I wonder, are we afraid of being perceived as leaders, or exuding confidence by doing some unconventional things?

But, then, I see that our fearless leader, isn’t really still our fearless leader in today’s paper:

Mack in running for job in South
Dayton Public Schools Superintendent Percy Mack is a finalist for superintendent in Mobile, Ala., and he expects to interview Wednesday.

If you want to send a message of no-confidence- interviewing for jobs is a great way to do it.

Two things need to be answered asap:

  • Is there a number 2 to step up the moment Dr. Mack bolts town?
  • Why shouldn’t the board fire Dr. Mack and get someone who knows how to say no?

Having a CEO who is looking for a job sends the wrong message. Maybe Dr. Mack is frustrated by being told when and how much he can ask for on a levy? Maybe, the candidates for the board scare him? Maybe, he figures that with the district slipping back into academic watch- this is the best time to leave?

What we need now is bold, visionary leadership- and as far as I’m concerned, Mobile- you can have him. He’ll probably bail on you too in your moment of need.

Dr. Mack really only has one option- tell Mobile, thank you, but no thanks. I’m here to make a difference, and I’m not done yet- if he really has the skills to lead our district.

If you enjoyed reading true breaking news, instead of broken news from the major media in Dayton, make sure you subscribe to this site for an email every time I post. If you wish to support this blog and independent journalism in Dayton, consider donating. All of the effort that goes into writing posts and creating videos comes directly out of my pocket, so any amount helps! Please also subscribe to the Youtube channel for notifications of every video we launch – including the livestreams.