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from harassment and bullying. In this country, we also enjoy the right to free speech and the opportunity to express individual opinions and beliefs. This is a balance that we are legally bound to uphold in our schools.

As adults, we must keep our focus on the students and their well-being. We must model the very behaviors we hope to see in them, support their growth, reinforce their successes, and be there to help them up when they stumble. I continue to be impressed and amazed with the capabilities of our students and am proud of their behavior during these past few months. They have demonstrated insight, modeled respect, exhibited leadership, and shown to us their inherent goodness.

• Joel Aune is superintendent of the Snoqualmie Valley School District. You may reach him by calling (425) 831-8000.