One of the most key leadership positions in our community sits vacant. More important, perhaps, than the vacancy at the Natchez-Adams County Economic and Community Development Authority, the empty seat on our community’s public school board must be filled quickly.

The death last month of board member Dr. David Steckler left a hole in our hearts and it left an empty seat on the crucial board that helps make policy decisions for our schools.

With only four members at the table it’s only a matter of time before decision become stalled in a tie. Then what?

Let’s not wait to find out.

The Natchez Board of Aldermen, which appointed Steckler to the board needs to find the best candidate possible before policy issues and appoint that person to the board – soon.

And we can understand it if they feel the urge to hesitate on the decision. It will certainly be one ripe with controversy.

Any time a discussion of the Natchez-Adams County School board comes up invariably the old arguments for elected versus appointed school board members rears its head.

And honestly, this isn’t the time to discuss it.

Regardless of what your opinion, the manner in which we choose our school board members will not be changed without legislative action – which isn’t likely to happen before the next school year begins.

So rather than drag our current system into the mud with no end solution nearby, why don’t we find the right person, appoint him or her and let the school board proceed with the business of making our schools the best schools possible.

And that’s the minimum our children deserve.