During Riviera ISD’s March 10 regular school board meeting, it became evident who are the true leaders on the board. They remembered their duty to follow the district’s policy.

They sought and evaluated the truth in order to make an informed decision. They were willing and eager to listen to their friends and neighbors, the people they can truly trust.

Many members of this community have expressed their tremendous sense of relief and their gratitude to those leaders through heartfelt thanks.

Many teachers, parents, and students silently thank the board and now feel hope that the community’s best interests are finally being represented.

Since the founding of this community over 100 years ago, residents have striven to do what is best for the community, its children, and their children’s children.

This community does and always will survive because we value honesty and integrity.

In a town where a man’s word is his bond and a handshake is still considered a contract, this community welcomes and embraces people with similar values. Trust and truth are the foundation of these values.

School board members are appointed by their community, understanding that they will actively seek the truth and work to maintain their neighbors’ trust.

Our community has always forgiven honest mistakes. One may have an idea, a dream, a, vision or even a plan, but must never be driven by a personal agenda. We must always remember that the end does not justify questionable means.

Any business, contract, or building must stand on its own merits.

All great plans should be built on truth.

Without a foundation of truth, those plans will not support the weight of scrutiny and will ultimately collapse.

We shouldn’t fall into the trap of believing that half-truths or misleading information are acceptable as long as they serve the “greater good.”

The community has many unanswered questions. I encourage all individuals to bring their questions, concerns, and ideas forward at the Riviera School Improvement Committee’s next community gathering.

Vern Crocker “Riviera patriot”