In response to Alcorn's Feb. 17 column "History repeats itself yet again"

The primary thesis seems to be that public schools are not the place to teach social activism. I don’t entirely disagree, however, Mr. Alcorn’s characterization of the teaching of social activism in our classrooms is, at best, exaggerated. My daughter graduated from Lakewood High School in the year that the recall took place. Her classes focused on fact-based learning and critical thinking. Social activism was a healthy biproduct.

With respect to the now-recalled board members being "right" about censoring curriculum; as reported by the Denver Post: "The curriculum controversy stems from a board member’s proposal to form a review panel to promote patriotic material, respect for authority, and the free-market system...” I would like to understand the changes the Educational Testing Service made in this regard that support Mr. Alcorn's assertion. I am unaware of any changes that promoted patriotism and respect for authority. Further, promoting patriotism and the free-market system is not the responsibility of our public schools.

Mr. Alcorn's implication that the recall was solely a teachers’ union project is unfair. I was there along with thousands of other parents. The teachers’ union provided funding, but Jeffco taxpayer and parent grassroots support for the recall was stunning. The focus was not on censorship. It was about replacing a board that was unsupportive of public education and intent on funneling our tax dollars to private schools and for-profit companies.

Dave Coren, Golden