The blog is far from being civil. When a person is anonymous, they do not have to take any ownership over what they say, much like prank phone calls. I do not see the value in this blog (perhaps because I have been the brunt of some very malicious and false postings), what I see is a way for some people to get out a lot of anger without sticking to any factual information.
In regards to the so called need for an anonymous outlet, this venue is completely non-productive. I have not (that I am aware of) had teachers be afraid to speak with me and share concerns or ideas. I've always been open and available to anyone who wants to speak with me and many do. It has almost become an urban myth to an extent, I just haven't really seen such a problem. We have also had different teachers speak up at board meetings, has there been any adverse reactions as a result? No. As with any discussion, respectful dialogue is most useful and that's what makes Winona Online democracy the better tool to discuss local issues rather than an anonymous weblog.
In regards to the "censorship" issue, as I see it, the computers do not belong to the employee, they are property of the school district. No one is restricting anybody's personal access to it--just do it on your own computer on your own time. Do you read online democracy and post during your work day? No, people as a rule respect that personal use of computers, phones, etc. in the workplace should be very limited.
Susan
-------Original Message-------
Date: 03/19/06 19:37:36
Subject: RE: [Winona] Winona Public Schools WEB Log
[Winona Online Democracy]
While the blog produces little civility, it should be noted that the blog demonstrates the frustration not only within the Winona Community, but specifically within the walls of the schools. Blogs are anonymous--that is their nature. It is this feature of a blog that brings out the best and worst. Take it for what it's worth, but don't overlook the idea that people are finding a needed anonymous public outlet.... (specifically teachers and students).
Also, I need to brush up on access laws, but perhaps someone on WOD may be able to answer this question:
As long as a site is not pornographic or harmful to children, isn't it illegal to block it on school property? I know it would be at WSU....even if the blog was about WSU. I'd be interested in someone else's knowledge on the topic of sensorship.
Tania M.Schmidt
| 