A reader asks, is Ellen Weaver qualified for SC education superintendent?

Sham degree?

The State reports that Ellen Weaver has now met the requirements to run for SC Superintendent of Education, thanks to a gift from Bob Jones University (BJU).

The SC Code of Laws requires that a candidate possess “the minimum of a master’s degree and substantive and broad-based experience in the field of public education”. Ellen Weaver has neither.

According to their website: BJU’s master’s program in educational leadership requires 11 3-hour courses, including a research paper. A full-time, dedicated student could possibly earn that degree in three semesters.

Did she actually complete that program in six months, or was she given an unearned degree for political expediency? The answer is clear.

What this says about Ellen Weaver, and BJU, is also clear. BJU also notes that “this program . . . does not lead to state licensure.” We are expected to believe that a program is not sufficient to qualify a graduate to teach, but can qualify one to become the leader of the State’s schools. What we have is a sham degree from a sham university for a sham candidate who is in no way qualified for the job. Vote better, South Carolina!

Luther Hendrix, Camden

Education gaps

Why did the Age of Reason die so completely? As an I/O Psychologist and a leader in our local industry, I find myself asking this question repeatedly. This leads back to early education. As an I/O Psychologist, I deal with educational gaps and I see patterns of distrust and a lack of basic education. If we are constantly increasing funding for our educational system, why do we have these gaps and why are parents removing their students from public schools in favor of private and homeschool education at record levels? I believe I have a clue.

Our educational systems seem to have removed themselves from educating children in deference to becoming more of a penal system. Do public schools lack the desire to teach these children, or do they lack the skillsets and abilities? Are they chasing metrics rather than taking these teachable moments to guide and reward kids rather than develop a sense of distrust of those in their charge? I see the results of this paradigm daily in industry. Students become adults who distrust peers and leadership and lack of basic education. We as parents and concerned, thinking adults, need to make some changes. Sapere aude.

Joseph Bates, St. Matthews

Help Ukraine

I recently returned from a mission trip to Ukraine. Friends asked, “Why are you going?” I simply went to help. Our task was to evaluate how to begin recovery. Bombing has destroyed windows and blown roofs off homes. With winter coming, it is crucial that aid organizations be allowed to help with home repair or replacement.

While inspecting a replacement modular home, I saw hope. In a war zone, I saw a young girl wearing a striped sweater seated with schoolbooks around her, pet dog under her chair, stuffed animals on the window seal, doing her schoolwork via Zoom on an iPhone. I was shocked.

The reality of the situation hit me – Ukrainians want what we all want. They want sturdy homes, their children to attend school, freedom for their country, and a peaceful life. Many people in the U.S. have turned a deaf ear to the war in Ukraine. But friends, we need to open our eyes and ears because the people of Ukraine need our help.

As Election Day approaches, do your research. Vote for leaders who have a heart to help Ukraine. Help will bring hope. A hope that is rooted in democracy, freedom and peace.

Wade McGuinn, West Columbia

This story was originally published October 30, 2022 at 5:00 AM.