I am saddened and appalled by the recent decision of the School Committee concerning Dr. Jefferson’s bonus. It has been evident for some time that certain members of the School Committee have not liked our former superintendent to the extent that a great deal of time has been spent clashing with him. Now that they were able to get him to leave, why did the leadership of the committee feel it part of their duty to also kick him on the way out by denying him a bonus that was all but guaranteed?
Dr. Jefferson gave of himself to our community; we are all very proud of our schools—it is a major reason many of us chose to live here. Yes, he did make a mistake in the past, and he paid for it dearly with his reputation and suspension. The School Committee, when it acts like it did recently and when it goes on witch hunts, does not reflect the majority of those who voted them into their positions. I don’t think the people in this town want to teach their children this kind of approach when dealing with our teachers and school leaders. Enough with the politics; enough with the personal vendettas— please, let’s enact the majority will of the town and focus on the school being the best it can be.
Even though the committee is not paid, there are only so many hours in the day to carry out their work. We trust them to work to help the school to be a better place. I thank them for their service, but the actions pertaining to Dr. Jefferson were uncalled for.
Hugh Silk
Ann Lees Road
