Published: June 30, 2022 03:00 PM
The resignation of a school board member last week Rebekah Harriman (Mackessey) may have stood up, as she said in her return words, the climax of many comments, discussions with friends and family, and nights many depressing, insomnia.
But the timing of the announcement, and his clear impression that it must include derogatory remarks about his co-workers was, in our opinion, unfortunate – never forget the fact that in the coming weeks he may see Harriman intervene legally or informally in order to land him. his place.
Certainly the community owes Harriman, and anyone who acts voluntarily to serve in an elected position, is an expression of gratitude. Undoubtedly, based on our extensive report on his contribution to the cause of Newtown students, to which Harriman was committed, and focused on that goal.
His departure, however, is accompanied by a new school principal arriving in Newtown to take over the district administration leadership; coming at a time when his board experience would have been very valuable; and it happens just as the few efforts he has helped to make and start are beginning to take root.
With regard to his parting words, over the years, this newspaper has seen the coming and going of many public servants – elected, hired, or appointed. But it is hard to remember any one that came with such a proud combination of vitriol.
Instead of announcing his departure by paying attention to “strange things” that took place outside of some of the political turmoil during his tenure, his resignation continues to accuse the workers- ‘ with him by overstepping the boundaries, disrespecting staff, and “approaching dangerously to disguise so many things. important work that previous versions of the board have done – especially in the DEI area.”
Harriman clearly states that his former board has a problem of “lack of strong, ethical, transparent leadership,” and that some members no longer have the vision to serve students.
If this is true, then the problem is probably a lack of deep political experience with the chairman. While politics has no place when it comes to overseeing the school board business, discussions that can be enhanced by political experience – and how it can serve a school board leader in times of conflict – can be very important.
With all of this being said and done, Harriman said he was still determined to lead the Newtown Democratic Town Committee – the same team that would play a key role in advocating for and approving the school board. .
Although much of Harriman’s role in influencing a school board replacement will be known only to a few DTC members and loyal party members, due to his honest and public opinion expressed by board members home and former chairman, the best thing Harriman can do. the benefit of the school district and the community will be that they publicly resign themselves from participating in the process.
At the same time, every remaining member of the education board should take the opportunity to reflect on the importance of Harriman’s important ideas. Along with the chairperson, members of our school board must focus again on their important work (and new co-worker) and continue to reject any temporary influence or commitment. serious of letting their political beliefs hold the dog.
