Pickerington Online welcomes readers to submit Letters to the Editor. The opinions expressed in these letters are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the editor or staff. Letters emailed to editor@pickeringtononline.com will be posted on both the organization’s website and social media within a few days of receipt, unless the contributor specifies a preferred publication time.

A Call In for Current and Former Community Leaders

April 10, 2026

Dear Editor,

As a current member of the Pickerington Local School District Board of Education, I believe moments like this require more than votes and yard signs. They require leadership.

So, I ask a simple question: Where are they?

This question is directed not in criticism, but in invitation, to current and former elected officials who have served and continue to care deeply about this community.

Let me be clear: this is not a call out. This is a call in.

Our schools are one of the most important pillars of this community. They shape the experiences of our children, influence the strength of our neighborhoods, support local economic vitality, and remain one of the greatest drivers of why families choose to call Pickerington home.

That reality makes school funding, district priorities, and the future of public education an issue that should matter beyond the Board of Education alone.

This is why I believe this is also a moment for current city, township, county, and state leaders, as well as former elected officials who helped shape the foundation we stand on today, to lend their voice and perspective.

Residents deserve to hear from the people they trust, the people they once entrusted, and the people who understand the long-term implications of the decisions before us.

Whether someone stands on the side of yes or no, this is bigger than a vote total.

This is about community leadership.

Times like these deserve thoughtful insight from those who know this community, have served this community, and understand how closely connected our schools are to the broader future of Pickerington.

Former leaders still hold valuable wisdom.

Current leaders still hold public responsibility.

Both perspectives matter.

Our community deserves the benefit of hearing where those voices stand, not because agreement is required, but because transparency, visibility, and civic engagement strengthen public trust.

So again, I ask with respect and sincerity: Where are they?

This is a call in for all leaders, past and present, to provide insight, share perspective, and help guide our community through an important moment in its story.

Charles E. Newman, MPA
Member, Board of Education