Is the recall language on the ballot accurate? Yes. For the recall to even be considered, it had to pass a legal review by CBJ, ensuring that enough factual detail was provided to allow those being recalled a fair opportunity to defend themselves.
Regarding the FY 2024 budget: The school board was notified in February 2023 about a $4.7 million deficit and the need for immediate action. However, neither Emil Mackey nor Deedie Sorensen made any motions to address this. While they referenced the problem, they never took formal action to explore solutions to address budget deficits, declining enrollment, or the state’s flat funding. It’s like knowing you need to make house payments but never actually doing it — and then being surprised when the bank takes your house. Words alone are not enough; actions are what count.
As for claims that I’m just an “angry Thunder Mountain parent spreading misinformation,” I am a concerned Juneau citizen who wants the best for all students in our district.
As for the school consolidation, I don’t disagree that consolidation may have been necessary, but I believe how the process was handled — with fear and panic — was avoidable. My opposition to the chosen model was based on facts. I simply asked the school board to explain how they evaluated all options and to provide the facts behind their decision. To this day, I have not received those answers. If the board had demonstrated they thoroughly reviewed all possibilities, the community could have understood and accepted their decision. Asking questions is not spreading misinformation.
Throughout this process, I’ve remained focused on transparency and honesty. I haven’t resorted to personal attacks or inflammatory tactics. I’ve published op-eds urging the public to be thoughtful and think critically, all while outlining valid reasons behind the recall. The recall itself is a democratic right, allowing citizens to hold their leaders accountable.
I encourage everyone to review all the information available and make an informed decision. Visit savejuneauschools.com and JuneauRecall.com to get the facts and decide for yourself before voting. Your vote is important and the choice is yours.
Jenny Thomas
Juneau
