Hello, dear readers! Welcome to a bonus letters column. We have some interesting (and familiar) topics to cover, so we’ll dive right in.

CLINTON’S HISTORY 10, 20, 30 AND 40 YEARS AGO

DEAR HARRIETTE: I just started my new job, and my boss has given me little guidance. When I reach out with questions, the responses are either short, vague or delayed. I was expecting some kind of structured onboarding or training, or at least regular check-ins to help me transition smoothly, but that hasn’t happened. Most days I’m left trying to piece together things on my own, and I have no idea if I’m meeting expectations or completely missing the mark. This lack of communication is starting to take a toll on my confidence. I worked hard to get this job, and I want to prove myself, but it’s difficult when I don’t know if I’m doing things the right way. I don’t want to come across as incompetent, but at the same time, I feel like I’m failing simply because I don’t have the information or support I need.

On May 16, 2023, the Des Moines, Iowa, School Board hired Ian Roberts to be its new superintendent. Roberts, the first African American ever chosen to run the city’s schools, formally began the job on July 1, 2023.