It is clear that in recent months, Albert Lea Area Schools has reached a critical point.

With tensions rising on many different issues, focus for many has shifted from what’s most important: the children.

No matter what your opinions may be and what personality differences exist, we encourage all sides — whether administration, school board or the public — to practice civility when addressing each other both inside and outside of public meetings — including on social media.

Is it OK to disagree?

Absolutely. That’s why we elect multiple people to the school board.

But when these disagreements distract from the education of our children, that’s when something needs to change.

What about our teachers who work tirelessly to educate our students? What about our students who are achieving great things? And what about the parent volunteers who are donating their time and energy to benefit their children’s classrooms?

Many great things are happening in our district, but these positive aspects are presently clouded over.

What does it look like to practice civility? An organization in the community that encourages civil behavior asks people to think before they speak and to ask themselves the following questions about what they plan to say:

• Is it true?

• Is it helpful?

• Is it inspiring?

• Is it necessary?

• Is it kind?

We encourage our children to practice civility and to treat each other with respect.

Now we must all do the same.

Somehow, sometime soon, we must shift the focus back to the children.