Over the past few days, KSD and Dr. Tom Williams, superintendent, have been criticized for their decision to keep schools open on Wednesday and Thursday despite icy roads and remaining snow. Some parents and students have even claimed the district does not care about the safety of the students. Many suggested it was an irresponsible decision and not well thought out.

I wholeheartedly disagree.

I think school should have been closed on Thursday, January 9. However, Dr. Williams’ decision to keep school open was in no way irresponsible. It was a judgement call and he had to pick a side. No matter which side he chose, people were going to be upset. Williams said he weighed his options carefully before deciding, and in a situation where an important decision must be made, that is all you can ask.

I do not think people fully understand that someone in a position of authority inevitably has to make tough choices. He went with what he considered the best option. Although I disagree with his ultimate decision, I believe it was a thoughtful and responsible one.

A few parents commented on the Kirkwood School District Facebook page and questioned whether the district had the well being of students in mind when they kept school open. I think that is ridiculous. I’m appalled and shocked that some people actually believe this. Do they honestly believe that Dr. Williams and Co. sat there for hours and deliberated without thinking of student safety? He made it crystal clear to me that it was the only idea on their minds. Now, did they make the correct call? Who knows? But nobody can say they didn’t think about student safety when deciding.

I get that some people don’t agree with the decisions the district made. I would have done things a little bit differently as well, but I’m not going to sit here and say that he doesn’t care about student safety just because he didn’t do exactly what I wanted him to do. I think it is better to respect the district’s choice and disagree without making ill-founded claims.