To the editor:

The letter printed Oct. 19 titled “Too Simple,” revealed to me just how simple-minded some people really are. My initial reaction to this article was abrupt anger and confusion. However, after taking time to think it over, I realized this is exactly what Mr. Holroyd wants, and being openly angry and causing a major scene about this issue would only prove his point that the students attending the Alternative High School are nothing more than rejects who “can’t make it” in the “normal” high school setting.

The fact is, Mr. Holroyd, if the alternative school wasn’t in existence, I would likely have dropped out of school by now as would have a good percentage of the kids who attend school here. Does this mean we “couldn’t make it” at the other high schools? No way. The majority of students here at the Alternative High School have equal if not higher IQs than those of students in any other school, but unlike much of the staff and student body at the other two schools, we value our education and learning instead of just being talked at.

In conclusion, all I ask is that you, Mr. Holroyd, and every other citizen of Lawrence, hesitate before stereotyping the students here as the same old “rejects.” Take time to review the facts and get to know some of the students and staff here. If and when you do, I guarantee you will be very pleasantly surprised.

Caleb Thesman,

Lawrence