Letters Feb. 26, 2010

Louis Mitchell

A Man of the People

We have had occasion to meet and know, to a varying degree, all the current members of the Bremerton School Board and find them to be very cordial and dedicated to bettering opportunities for our youngsters.

I must preface my remarks concerning the recent resignation of Bremerton School Board member Louis Mitchell by saying that Mr. Mitchell’s lack of reason for his leaving the board may lead one to speculation, which often guides us on a path of inaccuracy when seeking an answer. We shall engage in none of this and will only speak to what we know of Mr. Mitchell.

Even though we did not always agree with him, we have never met a more dedicated public servant than Louis Mitchell. When trying to make a decision, Louis always went way beyond the norm to seek information that would lead to an outcome which would be in the best interest of our youth. Sometimes his opinions and stand-on issues put him on an island, but when convinced he was acting for the people, he stood his ground.

Louis Mitchell worked hard to gain the trust of the voters of the Bremerton School District. He believed in holding to a strong code of ethics and in open communication. Louie lived the credo, “Politics be damned, just act in the best interest of the people and do the right thing.”

Mr. Mitchell, thanks for your service and caring enough to go the extra mile on behalf of our schools and kids. Your commitment to excellence and integrity sets the bar high.

Until we meet again, for kids sake.

Lane C. Dowell

Bremerton teacher/coach (retired)

Member of the 2005 Bremerton School Bond Campaign Committee

President of the Semancik Foundation

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