On April 18, 1995, history in Bernard Township has the opportunity to repeat itself.

Actions speak louder than words. At "meet the candidates night" on April 6, 1995, history was coming full circle. We heard a lot of words -- can actions support them?

On June 27, 1988, December 16, 1991, January 27, 1992, and on numerous other occasions, one candidate, Jonathan Lane, voted against computers and computer related materials. However, on April 6, Mr. Lane said that one of the most important things in a child's education is technology. Actions speak louder than words. There is a clear discrepancy between Mr. Lane's actions and his speech.

One of Bernards Township school system's strong points is the wide variety of courses that are available to students. On April 23, 1990, Mr. Lane voted alone.

Mr. Lane voted against sixty-five consecutive resolutions. They allowed for a well-rounded curriculum that included such courses as those in languages, art, and music (including voice, band, and orchestra).

Yet, on April 6, Mr. Lane informed voters that he believed balance was important. How can balance be important to Mr. Lane when he voted against a full and balanced curriculum? His actions clearly speak louder than his words!

Mr. Lane was a member of the Board of Education that marked a turning point in 1992. According to Board minutes dated December 16, 1991, Jonathan Lane proposed to change the schedule at Ridge High School to an 8-period day. The public out cry was immediate. Mr. Lane and that board ignored voter's input. The majority of teachers, students, and parents spoke against the change. Lane, however, voted for it. His actions, once again, speak loudly.

In 1993 the public acted decisively. Mr. Lane was voted off the school Board!

It is apparent that the residents of this community want to be involved with their children's education. A board member who does not listen to the concerns of the community, is not needed. All of the current candidates, except Mr. Lane, want to move the district forward.

Residents have seen Mr. Lane's actions and now again have heard his words. Jonathan Lane is the only candidate from the disruptive past. His decisive actions of the past do not speak to the future of our students.

We cannot allow history to repeat itself in Bernards Township. Do not let Jonathan Lane take control of our district again.

Comments!, questions? E-mail: rdfa@ollav.com