Letter: Free speech must be defended

Since my recent letter to the editor appeared in both Newton area papers I have received many calls thanking me for speaking out. I did so as a result of the editorial in one paper. I also received a call from the plaintiff in the case, LaQuanda Carpenter, who left a voice message for me. Many employees of Alcovy High have told me that once their transfers are complete and after the school year ends they will share more openly. Please do so.

I took a bold step. Ms. Carpenter stated she would see me in court, but it is my hope that free speech and freedom of the press rule against her attacks meant to direct attention away from serious problems in a high school.

Attacking free speech and public leaders, former teachers, and me as a parent who chose to pull my daughter out of NCSS in 2011 after one board member told me I was being "dramatic" over a serious case of school bullying that year is wrong.

I pray that our constitutional right to free speech is upheld and that the Newton Citizen prevails in its fight for freedom of the press and free speech.

If Alcovy High School did not have the lowest rate of graduation in the county and below the state, then no one would complain. I am unafraid to face Ms. Carpenter in court. I will never name a source of information for me as many are employees, but I will share enough to show the judge enough to investigate evidence of wrongdoing, down to the names of the people in the room when her comments were made, as well as share other evidence.

I no longer have to hide behind MsLoy and KBeet. I am yours truly,

-- Shannon L. Black

Conyers

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Letter: Free speech must be defended