Hillsdale Conservatives

Category: Uncategorized

  • Homeschooling: A Choice Rooted in Commitment, Not Privilege.

    In today’s rapidly evolving educational landscape, homeschooling stands as a powerful testament to the dedication of parents who refuse to leave their children’s futures to chance. While often misunderstood as a privilege available only to those with abundant resources or flexible schedules, homeschooling is, in fact, a choice made by families across diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. It is driven by deep commitment, resourcefulness, and a desire for something beyond what traditional schooling can offer.

    Homeschooling as a modern educational movement is rooted in the belief that parents are the primary and most influential educators in their children’s lives. John Taylor Gatto, a former New York City Teacher of the Year and outspoken critic of conventional schooling, emphasized this belief in his works. Gatto argued that traditional schooling often stifles creativity and critical thinking, reducing children to passive recipients of information rather than active participants in their own education. He famously stated, “Genius is as common as dirt. We suppress our genius only because we haven’t figured out how to manage a population of educated men and women.”

    Gatto’s critique of the traditional school system wasn’t merely theoretical; it was based on over three decades of firsthand experience in the classroom. He observed how institutional education often prioritized obedience and conformity over individuality and intellectual freedom. His book, Dumbing Us Down: The Hidden Curriculum of Compulsory Schooling, reveals how standardized education systems inadvertently undermine children’s natural curiosity and love of learning. He argued that true education requires nurturing children’s unique talents and passions—something homeschooling is uniquely positioned to do.

    Homeschooling allows parents to create a learning environment tailored to their child’s individual needs and interests. Rather than being restricted by rigid curriculums and standardized testing, homeschooling families can explore a wide range of educational resources, from experiential learning and community involvement to personalized lesson plans that foster critical thinking and independent problem-solving.

    Moreover, the financial barrier to homeschooling is often overstated. Many families on modest incomes successfully homeschool by leveraging free or low-cost resources such as public libraries, online courses, and community co-ops. According to a 2017 study by the National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI), families from all income brackets are represented in the homeschooling community, with many making significant financial sacrifices to prioritize their children’s education. The study also found that homeschooled students consistently outperform their peers in standardized tests, demonstrating that financial resources are not the primary determinant of educational success.

    Gatto’s writings further highlight the importance of community and self-directed learning in the homeschooling model. He believed that true education happens outside the walls of a classroom—in real-life experiences, conversations, and hands-on learning. This perspective aligns with many homeschooling families who integrate life skills, civic engagement, and personal responsibility into their curriculum, preparing their children not just academically but holistically for the real world.

    Critically, homeschooling is not just a rejection of traditional schooling but an affirmation of the fundamental right and responsibility of parents to be deeply involved in their children’s education. It is a choice rooted in the belief that every child deserves an education that respects their individuality, fosters their innate potential, and equips them to be thoughtful, engaged members of society. As Gatto put it, “The truth is that schools don’t really teach anything except how to obey orders. This is a great mystery because thousands of humane, caring people work in schools as teachers and aides… The real truth is that you can learn anything you need to learn in order to live a good life and a useful life without schooling.”

    Homeschooling exemplifies this philosophy by empowering parents and children to take control of their educational journey, transforming learning into a lifelong adventure rather than a compulsory task. As more families embrace this path, it becomes clear that homeschooling is not an elitist luxury but a courageous choice—one that is driven by love, determination, sacrifice, a profound commitment, and an unyielding belief in their children’s future.

    Heather Jessop
    https://www.linkedin.com/in/hmjelitebookkeeping

  • Preserving the Republic: Standing Against Political Tyranny in Our Backyard.

       For many, a name is more than an identifier—it’s their livelihood. Reputation can make or break success, especially for self-employed individuals whose businesses rely on the goodwill and recommendations of satisfied customers. This dependence is magnified in small towns and close-knit communities, where word travels fast, for better or worse.

    Now, imagine the devastating impact of a deliberate smear campaign. Not just the occasional rumor whispered over coffee, but an orchestrated effort to ruin someone’s reputation through social media, local radio, and even newspapers. Picture that this effort isn’t random or personal—it’s political. What if it were driven by government officials abusing their positions to silence critics, shield themselves from accountability, or cling to power? Does that sound far-fetched? History—and perhaps even recent events—might suggest otherwise.

    For conservatives, the goal is straightforward: elect individuals who embody American values and bring bold ideas to the table. Unfortunately, this noble aim often collides with the entrenched interests of political machines. Cronyism and nepotism thrive in these systems, where the priority isn’t serving constituents but preserving personal power and privilege. Such career politicians, like parasitic weeds, drain the vitality of our communities and stifle the nation’s potential.

    Think about the future. Imagine your child has an innovative idea to benefit your community or country. Should they have to play a corrupt game of “kiss the ring” to make a difference? Should they be forced to compromise their integrity, cut backroom deals, or, worse, face fabricated charges and public character assassination just to get a seat at the table? In a republic built on democratic principles, good ideas shouldn’t require a mountain of money—or a willingness to sacrifice one’s principles—to succeed.

    The reality, however, is sobering. Our political landscape has grown increasingly Machiavellian. Established power structures, from local governments to national institutions, often go to great lengths to deter outsiders who challenge the status quo. The recent decision in Hillsdale County to arbitrarily eliminate delegate seats in the Republican Party is a prime example. Fewer seats mean fewer voices, especially for those who don’t conform to the views of the entrenched government elite. Dissenters may find themselves targeted with lawsuits, public smears, or other “coincidental” hardships aimed at silencing them.

    This should concern every American who values democracy and fairness. Politics in a free country shouldn’t be a gauntlet of intimidation and obstruction. Instead, it should encourage engagement and innovation. Yet, as systems are deliberately made harder to penetrate, the onus falls on us—the people—to demand better.

    It’s time for conservatives, and all citizens who care about the integrity of our Republic, to wake up to what’s happening at the local level. Look around. What happens to your neighbors when they step forward to serve? Is this what a Republic was meant to look like?

    Change won’t come easily, but it will come if more of us choose to get involved. For the sake of our collective future, let’s ensure the next generation of leaders can pursue their vision without compromising their principles. Let’s make it clear that our communities deserve leaders chosen for their ideas and character—not their connections to an entrenched power clique.

     Contributing Member
     Brian Haire

  • Letter from the Chair

    Welcome to the Hillsdale Conservative Network

    Dear Conservatives,

    It is with great enthusiasm that I introduce you to the Hillsdale Conservative Network—a bold and exciting initiative dedicated to empowering the conservatives of our great County while expanding this network Statewide. Our mission is as straightforward as it is essential: to ensure you are equipped with the knowledge to understand the challenges we face, the opportunities we can seize, and the accomplishments we should celebrate. Together, we will illuminate the issues affecting our community, right the wrongs where possible, and exercise our constitutional rights to elect leaders who embody true servant leadership. Importantly, we’ll also celebrate the successes in local politics because good governance deserves recognition just as much as missteps require accountability.

    As the newly elected chair of Hillsdale Conservatives, I am both humbled and energized by the trust placed in me by my peers. Our vision for this organization is clear: to provide transparent, actionable information that empowers each of you to be active, informed citizens. But information alone isn’t enough. Community engagement will be a cornerstone of our efforts, as we aim to foster a spirit of cooperation and generosity. Whether it’s lending a hand to a neighbor in need or organizing collective initiatives, we firmly believe in the power of grassroots action. After all, the heart of service isn’t confined to government—it thrives in the hands of the people.

    This belief was a driving force behind our decision to step away from the local Republican Party. Unfortunately, the party had become more of an obstacle than an asset, hampered by inefficiency and misaligned priorities. By striking out on our own, we’ve been able to pursue our goals with renewed focus and agility, free from unnecessary red tape.

    Reflecting on 2024: Lessons and Milestones

    Looking back on 2024, we have much to be proud of. Financially, we ended the year in a strong position, thanks to prudent fiscal management that allowed us to achieve our objectives without overspending. While the 2024 primary didn’t yield all the results we hoped for, we didn’t lose—we either win, or we learn. And learn we did. We gained invaluable experience and laid the groundwork for long-term goals, including offering the people of this community an alternative to entrenched establishment candidates.

    Our final meeting of the year, held on November 7th, was a fitting conclusion to a year of growth and progress. Together, we raised over $1,000 worth of food and essential goods for Share the Warmth, a local warming center serving those in need. This is a shining example of what conservatives can achieve when we come together for the greater good—without the heavy hand of government interference.

    Looking Ahead to 2025

    As we move into 2025, our vision remains ambitious yet grounded: to serve our community, expand our network of principled conservatives, and foster meaningful change. The Hillsdale Conservative Network is more than a resource—it’s a rallying point for those who believe in liberty, accountability, and the power of grassroots action.

    We hope this network becomes an invaluable tool for each of you. Whether it’s sharing insights, brainstorming solutions, or simply connecting with like-minded individuals, we are stronger together. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me personally—after all, our most powerful weapon as citizens is the power of communication.

    In Liberty,
    Josh Gritzmaker
    Chair, Hillsdale Conservatives

  • Ordinances For Thee

    Welcome to The Hillsdale Conservative Network

    Defending Liberty, Accountability, and Constitutional Governance

    Our mission is simple. We aim to hold government entities and representatives accountable. We are guided by the enduring principles of the Constitution, including limited government, individual rights, and transparency. Today, we analyze the second Hillsdale County Commissioners meeting of October 2024. This meeting is a striking example of the need for vigilance in governance.

    Public Concerns Ignored: Where Is Accountability?

    The meeting began with Bob recounting the troubling incident of a break-in at his property. Despite the State Police’s involvement, no arrests were made. This failure raises serious questions about government accountability in protecting private property—a fundamental constitutional right.

    A County Sheriff Captain spoke after Bob’s comment. He asked about the stalled healthcare negotiations for county employees. He also noted the jail’s overcrowding crisis (93 inmates in a space designed for 67). These issues, directly tied to public safety and fiscal responsibility, demand immediate attention.

    Yet, the Commissioners offered no response, transitioning instead into a presentation from the Michigan Association of Counties (MAC). The lack of engagement with public concerns reflects a troubling disregard for the principle of government accountability to its citizens.

    A Luxury Spending Spree: Fiscal Responsibility Under Fire

    The MAC representative’s presentation focused on taxpayer-funded training sessions at The Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island. An MSU professor hosted these sessions. These sessions, described in glowing terms, exemplify questionable use of public funds.

    The Constitution’s principles of limited government and fiscal responsibility require taxpayer dollars to be used for essential services. They should not fund lavish events with dubious value. This misuse of funds underscores the need for stricter oversight and transparency in local governance.

    Ordinances and the Unequal Application of Law

    Commissioner Brad later announced the removal of a township ordinance. This ordinance had blocked the government’s plan to construct a communications tower in Woodbridge. The ordinance was swiftly removed to facilitate the government’s project. However, citizens often face months or even years of bureaucratic hurdles to address similar grievances.

    This disparity violates the principle of equal protection under the law, a cornerstone of constitutional governance. When governments prioritize their own interests, they impose burdens on citizens. This creates an imbalance that undermines public trust in the rule of law.

    Tensions and Mismanagement at the Board Meeting

    A Reading Emergency Unit (REU) Representative unnecessarily read a report. It had already been entered into the agenda. This sparked tension as Commissioner Lienieger harshly accused the representative of failing to submit REU’s audit.

    In response, the REU representative remained calm despite the accusation. They clarified that they were operating within contract terms. The representative assured the board that nothing illegal was taking place. They noted that the audit was completed and in the hands of the accountant. Comm. Lienieger did not respond, choosing instead to take an exaggeratedly aggressive sip of his drink, leaving an awkward silence.

    Breaking the tension, Comm. Brad raised a concern about ambulances occasionally lacking paramedics. The REU representative explained that REU is partially funded through a millage. However, they are fulfilling their contract with the County. They added that budget constraints and the challenge of hiring paramedics were ongoing issues. This led to a brief discussion about micromanagement, which Comm. Doug interrupted by questioning the adequacy of REU’s response times. The REU representative attributed delays to inefficiencies in the County dispatch system and proposed potential solutions. The board offered no response, and Chair Wiley gave a cursory thank-you, effectively shelving the matter for the future.

    The meeting then moved to Comm. Lienieger’s motion to remove a resolution from the table. Chair Wiley incorrectly supported the motion, sparking a brief attempt at debate from Brad. However, Comm. Lienieger invoked a point of order, cutting Brad off. This revealed Comm. Lienieger’s repeated misunderstanding of Robert’s Rules of Order. Despite the procedural confusion, the motion passed 5-0.

    For those familiar with these meetings, the dynamics between board members and the misuse of Robert’s Rules become clear. Originally intended to facilitate equal discussion, the rules are often wielded as a tool to suppress dissent and dominate proceedings. This situation prompts us to consider what other systems or tools might be susceptible to abuse by those in power. This is especially concerning at the government level.

    Healthcare Decisions in the Shadows

    The meeting’s most contentious issue involved the healthcare plan for county employees. Despite its significant impact, the healthcare committee—a body tasked with deliberation and oversight—was excluded from meaningful discussions.

    The County Sheriff Captain rightly pointed out that the committee usually meets multiple times a year. However, it convened only once before the vote. No substantive information was shared. Even more disturbing, the healthcare costs for employees will more than double. This fact was revealed only after the meeting.

    Transparency in government is a constitutional necessity. Article I, Section 9 of the U.S. Constitution requires Congress to publish its proceedings, a standard that should guide all levels of government. Decisions affecting public funds and employee welfare must be made openly, with the involvement of all stakeholders.

    Committees, Compliance, and Overreach

    The formation of a committee to “educate” the Amish about government compliance raised concerns about government overreach. This was among other agenda items. While education is valuable, such initiatives must respect the Constitution’s emphasis on individual freedoms and religious liberty.

    Similarly, discussions about enforcing composting regulations and critiquing citizens’ practices underscore a tendency to micromanage private lives. These examples highlight the importance of ensuring that government power is exercised judiciously and within constitutional bounds.

    Final Thoughts: Upholding Constitutional Principles

    This meeting was rife with issues that demand attention. Public concerns were dismissed. There was questionable spending. Decision-making was opaque. There was a selective application of laws. These are not just procedural failures—they strike at the core of constitutional governance.

    Our Constitution is a covenant between the government and the people. It requires that power be exercised with accountability, laws be applied equally, and individual rights be protected against encroachment. When these principles are ignored, it is our duty as citizens to speak out.

    At The Hillsdale Conservative Network, we will continue to monitor, critique, and hold our local government accountable. After all, as the great Ronald Reagan once said, “Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction.”

    Thank you for reading. Happy Thanksgiving to all.

    Vice Chair
    Lance Lashaway
    Hillsdale Conservatives