District 54 should pay for police officer

A letter to Ed Rafferty, superintendent of Schaumburg Township Elementary District 54: Please consider this e-mail notice that my son, Cameron Popek, an 8th grader at Jane Addams Junior High School will not be in attendance on Wednesday, 5/13.

First off, I'd like to make certain that you know, as a parent, my position is not necessarily because I am fearful that my child will be hurt at the school tomorrow. My reasoning is mainly taking a stand against the lack of concern for the safety off all students in District 54.

I find it despicable that the school district will not pay the salary for a Schaumburg police officer to be present full time during the school year. Being publicly accessible, I see that your current salary is $265,924 for 2008. With this kind of salary, you cannot tell me that the district is unable to afford to pay for a police officer.

I am thankful that I live in the Schaumburg community - however, it saddens me that I can't send my child to school and know that they will be in a safe environment.

Especially looking at the database containing all the school teachers salaries for last year. Where are your priorities, Mr. Rafferty?

Cindy Popek

Schaumburg