We think that, for the most part, members of the Mars School Board are doing a good job.

However, that being said, we personally were not pleased at how the decision to eliminate the spring break after nine years was handled.

Obviously, the split decision of the board says that the action was to some degree controversial. We feel a vote by parents would have been appreciated.

Not only appreciated, but as parents, a common courtesy should have been extended to us. Even an announcement that this was going to be on the agenda would have gotten parents more involved.

I personally would be happy to man the phones next year for the calls for or against, when the issue is to be up for a vote again.

Sadly, we all live in a busy world. People don't seem to have the time to write about the board's decision and would rather complain.

The option of a phone call would get more of a response.

Again, I will do this, if needed.

The remark "education comes before family vacations" shows the need for a reality check. Family time together in any form nowadays is what life should be all about.

There is learning when family members can get together, regardless of what the form of vacation is.

Even if Holy Thursday would have been included in the spring break, that would have at least given a five-day getaway.

Nowadays, vacations from companies aren't given in the traditional way of two weeks in a row each summer like in years past. People have to grab the time when they can.

And, if that's the only time families can get together, they should be able to do so.

As to board member Gordon Marburger's comment that his kids "check out" after Memorial Day, most kids have a harder time coming back to school in August, when the temperature can still be in the high 90s.

We hope the board will take our opinions into consideration for next year's decision, as well as acknowledge that board members need to consider parents' thoughts on all major choices.

Also, Mars has grown considerably. Now is the time for putting the issue of a swimming pool at Mars High School on the election ballot.