Letter too hard on board members

To the Editor: A recent letter to the editor contained several comments and opinions critical of conduct of some members of the Sparta board of education. The letter drew attention to alleged procedural miscues and a lack of advance notice on the part of one or more board members in bringing before the board what appears to be personnel compensation matters usually reserved for closed-door board member discussion and resolution. That discussion of the topic followed a closed session and was not announced in advance and was not witnessed by the public certainly needs procedural review among all board members. However, regardless of the intentions of the author, the timing and the exposing of board “laundry” at this time dismays me. Given that each board member volunteers countless hours and personal resources, and that so much effort has recently been put forth to resolve earlier conflicts, it seems counterproductive to read yet another critique of these men and women. One might speculate as to what agenda would motivate such commentary, especially when we are preparing to cast several important votes … on the annual school budget, board seats up for election, and a fall referendum for reconstructing the high school … all critical to the education of our children. Why raise another contentious issue when the concerns should have been resolved within a closed session? I would have respected that approach rather than have the concerns put before the public. It would appear to me that communications like this contribute to mistrust and animosity among board members. We need a team effort going forward. Board members represent and serve us, the voters and taxpayers. They also are charged with providing oversight and fiscal guidance to the administration of the school district. Those are significant responsibilities to shoulder... To be publicly critical of one another, even under the umbrella of a “procedural” concern expressed on behalf of the public’s right to know, seems excessive in this instance. Board members need to put the appearance of any personal political agendas aside and regain the focus needed to deliver the best possible educational infrastructure and curricula to our town’s children. Jim McCormack Sparta