Recent Editorial Ignores Board's Effort

Dear Editor,

An editorial printed in the January 16, 2009 edition of Jabberwock speaks to two important issues facing MLWGS. The second of those issues is the one I would like to address.

The writer states. “MLWGS leadership have dragged with the director’s search. Until yesterday, very few details were shared about the hunt for Mr. Hunt’s replacement. Even the information given at Thursday’s meeting was ambiguous.”

Early last fall, the school board/leadership designed a time-line of activities for director recruitment which they shared with all.

They are working exactly to that time-line and are not dragging. I ask you to recall the open town hall held October 27, followed by an online survey asking for constituent input.

Upon review of that information and the data collected, an announcement for this position was created and posted locally, nationally and I’m told, globally. The announcement contained a specific closing date of January 5 to apply. The school board shared the number of applicants received as of the closing and that is all they can share. Names are never made public to protect the confidentiality of the applicant.

The school board committee has now had the opportunity to review the applications and have selected a pool for interview. As the board originally stated when this began, they intend to have the candidate selected by late March/early April. This timeline is consistent with most positions in education due to contractual obligations.

The writer also states, “Without substantial community involvement, consequences of the director’s search may be disastrous.” As a community, we have had the opportunity for involvement and now it is time for the professionals working on this matter on our behalf, to proceed. After all, this is essentially the same group that brought us Mr. Hunt last time.

- Ms. Barbara Marshall

Editor’s Note: The Jabberwock appreciates all letters to the editor. We respect Mrs. Marshall’s opinion and we look forward to Regional Board’s announcement on February 12.