THE VIRGINIAN-PILOT
Copyright (c) 1996, Landmark Communications, Inc.
DATE: Friday, June 14, 1996 TAG: 9606140004
SECTION: FRONT PAGE: A18 EDITION: FINAL
TYPE: Letter
LENGTH: 45 lines
I have been a neighbor, friend and admirer of Connie Hindmarsh and her family for more than 20 years. I am dismayed at the situation in which the superintendent of Norfolk public schools has placed this dynamic, caring and thoughtful teacher. As a former chairperson of the Gifted and Talented Advisory Council and as one interested in advancing the excellent work of the Norfolk public schools, I worked closely with Connie and her husband, Burt, when he was principal of Lake Taylor High School.
Connie has always upheld the highest ethical and moral standards and has respected her students' integrity and good judgment. She balances healthy guidance and discipline with an abundance of responsible love, care and concern.
I entrusted by beloved daughter, Alisa, to ``Miss Connie's'' care when she was a fourth-grader at Little Creek Elementary School. It was a relationship that extended through Alisa's years in high school and college.
In Mrs. Hindmarsh's Repertory, my daughter became an accomplished singer, dancer and actress. She developed from a shy, insecure person to a self-confident woman and teacher.
Mrs. Hindmarsh demanded excellence from her students, her staff and herself. She was available seven days a week, day and night, to her students and to their families.
Norfolk school officials should be extremely careful in their deliberations regarding Mrs. Hindmarsh and consider her fine record and history. Derogatory innuendos are hurtful and unfair. We as a city cannot afford to lose this valuable teacher.
LAWRENCE ARTHUR FORMAN Rabbi
Ohef Sholom Temple
Norfolk, June 4, 1996
We are greatly concerned by what is happening with the case between Norfolk public schools and Connie Hindmarsh.
We have been supporters of ``Miss Connie's'' fabulous theater productions for many years as taxpayers.
We value the talented contributions to the school system that this caring teacher has made for our children.
Dr. and Mrs. J. PAUL SMITH JR.
Norfolk, June 7, 1996 by CNB