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What Matters the Most

The recent abrupt resignation by a Board of Education member was done in a very public way. This action has been punctuated by inflammatory statements against the board’s chair, Katie Stein, that have been greatly amplified by this newspaper.

No person who selflessly, and so competently, volunteers to serve our community deserves public maligning. Katie is one of the most caring, selfless people I know, and a devoted public servant. She was unanimously elected as chair this year to lead the board through a time of great transition—a school closing, redistricting plan, and new strategic direction. She is thoughtful and compassionate, working tirelessly to be inclusive of all members. The facts support this.

Last year’s failed school referendum highlighted the board was out of touch and needed to rethink direction. Under new leadership, it has sought greater transparency, improved communication, and more inclusive decision-making. It has accomplished a lot—tackling problems head-on with our buildings that have festered for years while implementing best practices to modernize its governance. While not embraced by every board member, recent bylaw changes represent an important paradigm shift away from previous complacency toward shared decision-making and accountability, no matter who is in control.

Disagreements are inevitable and help us find the best solutions to our problems. However, we expect our elected officials to compromise, working with others with respect and dignity. Our community deserves public officials who behave professionally and who are committed to their mission. I believe a vast majority of town volunteers from both political parties embody this wholeheartedly, including the Board of Education chair.

The bottom line is that despite personal differences, changes being made by the Board of Education are good for our kids and good for our town—that’s what matters the most.

Peggy Lyons

Madison