There always seems to be some "heat" on school systems, school boards, and their superintendents. There probably always will be. Wayne Township is under the microscope right now with the Superintendents retirement package, and the Board's spending habits while in the middle of huge budget cuts. I decided to attend their Board Meeting last night. I thought this would be a great opportunity to also see how their Board handled this kind of situation.
They met in a different location than they normally do, so there was room for everyone who wanted to attend. At first it was standing room only. There were several student recognitions. (that is a separate blog) Once those were complete the room emptied out a little. At that time, I found a seat.
One thing I appreciated about this meeting is that anyone who wanted to sign up to speak could do so that night. There was a sheet in the hall, and anyone could sign up. Right before the delegations started the Superintendent, Dr. Butts, gave another opportunity for anyone to sign up. Two individuals did so. And again, after the last delegate spoke Dr Butts gave yet ANOTHER opportunity for anyone to speak. BRAVO to being so willing to hear from the public and NOT keep them at arms length.
I would say everyone who spoke showed disappointed with the Board Members and their failure to do their job properly. Some were supportive, forgiving and were ready to look to fixing the problems. Other were angry, less forgiving and demanded the Board Members step down immediately. Some shed tears. All wished the Board would have asked more questions. Many stated they had simply lost trust in the Board.
This got me thinking.....
The Wayne Township Board trusted their Superintendent and didn't question things. And now there is a much bigger problem. The community has lost faith in their School Board.
Since being sworn in on the IPS School Board I have asked my share of questions. Because of this I have received some not so favorable emails, and I have felt as an outsider. There seems to be this undertone that if you question anything, you are being disrespectful.
It is not easy for me to go to a meeting with the knowledge that it could be heated. In fact, I hate it. But I was elected to ask the tough questions and to inquire when something doesn't quite add up. I may be proven wrong in my concerns at times and that is ok. I know one thing for sure, I never want to be in the position that the Wayne Township Board members were in, I would rather ask one too many questions than one too few, no matter who I tick off while doing so.
