Owens vs. Bickner

Let's see, that would be the School Superintendent, who just got a big ol' pay raise above the state-recommended salary, and the School Board Attorney, who also just got a pay raise, right?

Can't we just let them settle their differences on the playground after school - and then get back to work?  That can't be any more immature than the way it's being handled now.

How can the elected members of the Clay County School Board allow a situation like this to exist in the very top levels of school management?  Some problems don't go away just because you turn your head the other direction and pretend they don't exist.  The problems need attention and action instead.

They haven't used any more maturity than Owens and Bickner (mostly Owens) in this little squabble.  Walking down the hall and escorting Bickner into meetings sounds like it would be fun, Margo.  I'd love to be a fly on that wall.

Maybe the superintendent should go ahead and become a full-time fisherman now instead of waiting until after this year's elections.  He could retire early, obviously improving the level of communication at the school district, and then Governor Crist could appoint a temporary replacement.  How's Superintendent Thrasher sound?

Michael S. Mann

michaelsmann@comcast.net

Mike

According to Owens, when he is not around, he leaves his secretary in charge to hold down the fort. So you're right---Owens could easily start his full-time retirement now.

I think you know what my answer is about Thrasher being appointed his temporary replacement. Since this is Clay County, that nightmare could become a reality, as we have seen happen here before.

Looks like Folio's investigative reports of the last few years, this week, and those yet to come have played a hand in Owen's decision to "spend more time with his family."

 It's a sad day when two grown men (well in age anyway) who hold such prominent positions in our county act like spoiled kids. This show of unprofessional behavior has sickened me as it should all of us. So much for leading by example!  The school board needs to take both of them to the 'cloak room' and show them the 'paddle'.  Did I just give my age away? 

And Michael ....... " your mouth!"     Superintendent Thrasher .... would have us all 'thrashing'.

And Pioneer.....you are absolutely right, the nightmare of Thrasher becoming the temporary superintendent could become a reality.  Alarming isn't it? 

I'm not familiare with any of the candidates for superintendent, so hope there are several forums, debates over the next few months.  I want to see and hear them. 

Stryker

I have the article in question on my desk as well, and based on past performance, I'm not at all surprised by this newest tidbit. Owens regularly makes decisions that either ignore wisest counsel or plain common sense and that bring us up for ridicule in the educational community and even the nation at times. Think I'm exaggerating? Try a web search on the county name and his - the stories that appear are gifts that keeps on giving.

I personally think he has no intention of retiring early. That would be far too convenient for those he doesn't care for (and vice versa).

My question is, seeing that he has nothing to lose, what further moves will he make? Any theories? For one, I'm wondering who will end up in those principals' seats when the music stops.

let's just put it this way. if someone who is going to be as immature and childish as owens is going to keep bruce bickner out of meetings then the system is screwed. because he has personal issues should have nothing to do with the matter. its pathetic. bickner has done an amazing job and owens should recognize that in the workplace instead of acting like an elementary school child. and possibly focus of the kids in school and issues at hand instead of being the bully on the playground. grow up.