So…today I sit in my dark corner at home. Bad headache for two days, that nasty taste and weird smell now accompanied by a ringing in my ears. The ringing could be blood pressure. I’ve had some rather stressful things going on lately.
As an active member of my kids’ activities for 13 years, specifically boosters, to say I’m invested is an understatement. I’ve worked really hard to make sure that I have done my part to make things better. We all know they can be done better when it comes to booster organizations. I’ve probably not made many friends along the journey, but I can say this much, the kids benefited from my need to make sure there were procedures, growth and accountability. I’ve researched. I’ve asked questions. I’ve gone to meetings. I’ve studied the Kentucky Red Book (a guideline for school accounting but is also a resource for KY Boosters). I’ve gone to district level personnel and been pointed to another person and another person and finally an answer. Then I learn that answer was not the answer given to our other school boosters…but I charge on based on their answers and of course, some common sense. You see, I do think on my own unlike a lot of others that enter into these roles. Yes, I’ve probably pissed off a few people along the way, making them work, think and hunt for things they didn’t want to deal with or hope to not have to deal with. I’m sorry. I just want to make sure these parents who put their hard earned money into an organization I’m responsible for runs above board. As much as I can control, as much as I can have a say in, I do. When I’m commended by administration and other officials for “running the boosters the way it’s suppose to be run”; I smile. I thank my fellow boosters. I brag about those parents. For without them, I am nothing more than a parent that gets on your nerves.
When there’s a booster group I discover not running “the way it’s suppose to be run”, I speak to them. I beg them to just let me help. I try to show them the way. They refuse. I can’t do anything else. But, I know as a parent, I don’t have to support the group that is NOT running properly…and I don’t.
My child is a very active child. Not responsible for me or my actions. So if I piss you off, don’t take it out on my child. That being said, it happens. I feel it. For that reason, I am now sitting here in this dark corner, under a blanket and thinking, “…Letting go…sometimes the best option”. It’s probably time I just let go and quit trying to fight the “battle for the boosters”.
Parents, you are at risk. Be forewarned. I may have paved the way and while my intentions were good, it may not end well for you now. I’m sorry. My husband has said that “schools are a breeding ground for bullies”. I don’t want to agree with that – but having heard things from administration such as, “do this or we will dissolve you” or “we strongly suggest you do this“….maybe he’s onto something. It’s not to be targeted to EVERY employee of the school system; but dag nab it, it just takes a few bad apples to spoil the bushel.
I’m not at liberty to really publish where this is all coming from….I can, but I really don’t want to open that door. I know in the end, I’m closer to being right than those who have pushed these changes. I’m cursed with the ability to think outside the box and see the downfall of these huge, massive changes being pushed on the boosters I am involved in…. I’m sorry. I cannot be a figure head in that organization any longer. I cannot allow us to be bullied into things I know is wrong and NOT in the best interest of the overall program and kids.
I have a life outside of this organization and I will return to my regularly scheduled life…I will work longer than 6 hour days, allowing me to have an income vs volunteer time, I will have time for my hobbies and most of all, I won’t be a thorn in your side anymore – Mr or Mrs School District.
I’m not a quitter by nature; but I heard something recently that rattles in my head, “Do what makes you happy”. It does not make me happy to know that control freaks come in say one thing and do another. My gut hurts from that figurative kick. My back, hands and feet are sore from the hard physical work. My spirit has soared it’s last flight. I’m hanging up my walkie talkie. My heart is broken.
For all those others out there running booster organizations, in my area, take cover….for “they” say you are next. If anyone has questions, I have experience to share – private over drinks, I will pass along my lessons learned. NO, you cannot use booster funds to pay me for my advice or buy my drink!
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