Yes, Ms. Betts and her child are definitely at fault; however, she more than acknowledged that fact. She stated that she has talked to the administration as well as others about the issue. She is seeking help in all sources. She is trying to be responsible for her child’s actions but what about the actions of the other 10 kids. What are their parents doing to clear up this problem? She specifically stated that the adminstration as well as the other parents need to get together to put a stop to this. She can not do it alone. It takes a mighty big person to stand before the media to accept responsibility for her child’s part in this ordeal. Get the parents and students some help. They need better supervision and they need it immediately. Unless something is done, the next article you see or read may not be able to be mistaken for a “poor me publicity gimmick”.

I wouldn’t classify this as a publicity gimmick. This issue needs to be publicized. This is a cry for help. Is there anyone actually listening? This happens to be a school that consists of 100% African American and it appears as if no one cares about their well-being.  The administrators are not effective. As we should know, an entity is only as strong and productive as the person and/or persons in charge. The parents, alumni, students and others in the community issued a petition signed by 100’s to the Monroe County Board of Education asking that the administration be replaced (June 2007). Nothing has been done or will be done to rectify the situations at this school.