Why? That’s what I asked myself when I read about Mr. Charles “Bubba” Hanks not being the principal at Redwood Elementary next year. I wanted to cry.

My mother was killed in December 2009, so I had to relocate to the Redwood District. I was nervous about moving my 5-year-old son, Chase, from Dana Road. I loved his teacher and was very close to her. I knew my child was getting a good education. His first day at Redwood felt wonderful for me. Mr. Hanks was so welcoming.

Since that day in January of this year, Mr. Hanks has spoken to me as if we are best friends. He always speaks to me about how Chase and he talk, as well as how Chase loves to talk. 

Although I lost one of the most important people in my life on Dec. 12, 2009, I felt that at least I knew my oldest child was being taken care of at Redwood. That was a big stress reliever. I don’t know why Mr. Hanks is leaving Redwood, but I am protesting it.

Redwood will not be the same, nor will it be run the same when Mr. Hanks is gone.

Ashley Jilbert

Vicksburg