It’s arguably been one of the hottest and most controversial issues in Austin this past year: the school board at Austin Public Schools.

Opinions have been fierce, tempers have flared, fingers pointed.

Whether you like or dislike superintendent Candace Raskin; approve or disapprove of Curt Rude sitting on the board with pending charges; believe or don’t believe there is a mass exodus of staff or “culture of fear,” one thing is for certain: all have been an immense distraction from what the real focus and purpose is of a school district — the students.

Put yourselves in these students’ shoes right now. What kind of example is this for them? Let’s work out the differences and act like grown ups — board members, staff, parents, citizens, critics.

If there is an actual problem with communication in the district, work on it. If there are unjustified terminations and early retirements, prove it.

A new school year begins this September. There will be a new interim administrator and and a new beginning. Let’s start over and make it right this time.