Prince George’s County deserves better from its elected officials

Whether the offense warrants removal from the board is in our opinion based on one’s moral standards and principles, which appear to be eroding in this county. In any work environment, a high standard of service and ethical behavior is expected. An employer can fire a person for misusing technology, equipment and⁄or cursing customers.

Prince Georgians, have we become so complacent and apathetic that we are not outraged when an official we elect or that is appointed to lead and serve us can use the power of their office to destroy the moral fabric of good and evil? As an elected school board official, Beck represents school system administration, students, teachers and parents, and the school superintendent reports to her. She is elected to make and enforce policies that expel students for far less infractions than what she committed. Is she above the law?

What happens to parents if inappropriate behavior occurs in the school system? Well, the school system is considering a Parent Code of Conduct that sets clear expectations for appropriate ‘‘parent behavior,” and violation of those expectations could result in a fine or imprisonment if convicted, and denial of access to the school building and⁄or grounds. Are there two standards?

This fact brings to light something very wrong in this county. It has become normal practice for an elected official to ignore constituents. They know how to court you to gain your support and vote during election season, but once they are elected, they do not know you. Why are we allowing this type of arrogance and behavior from an elected official?

Regardless of the reason, nothing justifies the course of action Beck took when she used her Prince George’s County e-mail account to send an offensive e-mail to a voter, parent and concerned citizen. She disagreed with the position our organization took and took it upon herself to react in an unprofessional manner.

Only after a strong letter was sent to Ms. Beck signed by leaders in our county did she send an e-mail to Ms. Pruitt titled ‘‘Apology.” This was sent 24 days after her unprofessional and nefarious actions. As of the printing of this letter, it has been 41 days and Ms. Beck has not made or posted a public apology — something that People for Change believes is owed to every resident and citizen of this county and, more importantly, Ms. Beck owes her colleagues a public apology.

It’s time for change in Prince George’s County! We need to stand up and demand high moral standards and values — then maybe we can remind elected officials like Beck that they are supposed to be public servants, and regardless to the differences of opinion, she works for the voters.

Donna Hathaway Beck, we, People for Change, call on you to put an end to the embarrassing situation you made on our county. Do the right thing – put away your personal pride and apologize to the public.

Sandra Pruitt, Mitchellville; Terrence Lewis,Upper Marlboro; Zalee Harris, Temple Hills;Jerry McLaurin, Fort Washington; Bill Jones, Bowie; Ken Johnson, Mitchellville; Harold Waterman, Glendale; Kevin Martin, Upper Marlboro;Crystal Williams, Accokeek; and Margaret Miller, Bowie, People for Change in Prince George’s County