I attended a meeting at Lisbon High School regarding the current hockey program. There were more than 30 parents and students in the room, an excellent showing for people concerned about the hockey program and what direction it is going.

Quite a few parents spoke up about their concerns. Some had some super ideas how to make the program better. There happened to be a school board member in attendance. One of her children currently plays hockey.

The discussion about eligibility for participation in an extracurricular activity arose. A suggestion was made to lower standards to passing five out of six classes. The person mentioned how hard it is for some students to pass six out of six classes and referred to a soldier currently in Iraq that she is deeply concerned about. She spoke with him and mentioned the current eligibility at LHS, and he said that when he was in school, there was no way he could pass six out of six classes. She then mentioned that he is becoming an officer.

Now, Mr. Healey, the principal of LHS was also in attendance. I found his behavior and response to the reference of the soldier in Iraq demeaning, inappropriate, rude and unprofessional. He said, “He couldn’t pass six out of six classes, but can become an officer?” Then, sarcastically, “Good for him.”

Mr. Healey should be ashamed. I hope he doesn’t treat the students at Lisbon High School the same way.

Janice Comber, Lisbon Falls