LETTERS: Party policy makes sense

To the editor:
   
We applaud Principal Glenn Famous for making a decision for the benefit of the students’ safety and the academic quality at Cambridge School.
   As principal, he should have the right to make any decision based on what is best for the children. These days, educators need to be concerned not only with academic excellence, but safety as well. Our schools’ administrators and teachers are paid to make choices that will provide our children with the very best education. They are not paid to make decisions based on the popular vote. That would make them politicians.
   The new party policy in place at Cambridge does indeed impact the celebrations that occur during school hours. But the majority of the parents are in agreement with the new policy and why not? In addition to lengthy holiday celebrations, in years past, parents were using the school as a facility to hold their children’s parties. They would decorate the classroom, bring relatives, present a variety of treats, and sometimes even provide lunch. This occupied an extended amount of class time when our children should have been learning.
   Imagine if every child had an "extended" birthday celebration. Our children’s birthdays should be memorable whether they are 4 or 15. There are many opportunities outside of school to make this celebration special. Being active in your child’s education shouldn’t hinge on being present for a 60-minute party.
   There are also ample occasions for parents or guardians to be involved at Cambridge School, including the school store, the PTO, Family Bingo, volunteering in the classroom, Operation Bookworm, participating as a guest reader, the school dance and more.
   The school doors are certainly open to parents during the school year for a variety of events, including Author’s Tea, Ethnic Heritage Day, Pastries and Parents, etc.
   The responsibility of a school is to provide and foster a safe and secure environment, where the quality of education is the highest priority. This is being accomplished at Cambridge School under the superb direction of Mr. Famous.
Lizbeth Reil
Kendall Park
Maria Veglia
Monmouth Junction