August 29th-the rescheduled board meeting due to last week’s lack of attendance by most members….
The meeting tonight was quite lengthy. There were numerous appointments, new hires, resignations and promotions to be approved. There was also discussion on where Ralph Ross stood as far as being allowed by the pension board to stay on another 2 years as interim superintendent. He pleaded for the board to hold off on advertising and interviewing and anticipated hearing from legislators that he had contacted for help in a week or two. Two board members seemed concerned and wanted to move forward and be proactive but others didn’t feel a week or so would make a difference. The vice president, Rachel Green had some great suggestions moving forward. She suggested a “moving on” ceremony for the 8th graders leaving the middle school which is an excellent idea since it happens in the elementary school and the high school. She also brought up the idea to start looking for grant writers!!!! This is something I am truly passionate about. There is money out there for the taking, let’s go get it! I raised the question about newly appointed board member, Mr. Gentile and why the board has failed to follow procedure by notifying the county elections board that there was a recent resignation. According to statute 18A that unexpired term should be on the November 6, 2012 ballot. They answered that they are choosing to follow the solicitor’s advice rather than what most other districts are doing who are in the same position. My concern is that they are taking away the voice of the people. There is a reason that people vote and we shouldn’t just appoint people as we see fit. My concerns seemed to fall on deaf ears from most board members but the public in attendance agreed wholeheartedly. I will be following up with the proper channels to see if there is an avenue to force them to do the right thing and be accountable to the voters. Stay tuned!
Stacy Gray For Board Of Education 