Dear Donna Wright:

Outstanding job on the “Shift Happens” video explaining the urgency behind the “100-90-90-90” initiative. The video, for those who haven’t seen it, highlights all of the radical changes in technology and transportation that have taken place over the past 100 years — and hints at the changes to come. Show this video to as many parents and students as possible, in addition to principals and staff. Good stuff, indeed. Sobering thought: According to the video, the most in-demand jobs by 2010 didn’t exist in 2004. We’ve got a lot of work to do, y’all.

Dear Dan Murphy:

Kudos for insisting on excellence. Murphy said at last Monday’s workshop that despite Knox County’s good ACT averages, he’s not impressed. “We’ve got to push everybody up,” Murphy says. Here’s hoping every single action this board takes keeps that goal in mind.

Dear 8th District:

Be proud of Bill Phillips. He marched into enemy territory last Thursday night (Farragut Town Hall) and told them to get in line if they want a new school. The Farragut board discussed purchasing property that would then be donated to Knox County to eventually house a new school. Phillips said don’t hold your breath. Dang, and this guy isn’t even on the board yet!

Paging Robert Watson:

Gear up for more work, fella. The school board discussed hiring its own lawyer last week. This needs to happen sooner rather than later. The board needs a lawyer of its choosing. Period.

Dear board:

Way to go inviting the county mayor and commissioners to talk about the budget. Stand tall, though. I give you grief, and get tired of the 4-hour meetings, but if it comes down to a fight between county commission and school board, I know without question on whose side I’ll land …