Dear Editor:

I have taught for Wiscasset Schools for almost 24 years. I hope I've had a positive impact on the students who have come through my classroom, but I resigned, mid-year, something I could never have imagined I’d do. So why did a veteran, well-respected, National Board-certified teacher resign?Because of what Wiscasset schools have become in just the last few short months.

I am not surprised that no fanfare was made for my resignation at the Jan. 9 school committee meeting because I have made no secret to the superintendent or the board that I find their choices and actions at best ill-advised, at worst unethical.

As a veteran, I used my voice to push back on comments and actions taken by the superintendent, but after a colleague who resigned was given one day to vacate the premises as if she were a threat to kids, I knew for certain that this administration was not going to listen to reason nor operate with integrity.

Before the farce that was Gina Stevens’s hearing, I sent a letter to two school committee members (neither of whom replied) letting them know that if they unfairly fired Gina, I would tender my resignation. I would not work for anyone party to such injustice. Those were not idle words.

After resigning, I was even directed not to send good-bye emails to parents, students, or staff without Superintendent Andersson approving them first. An insult to my professionalism.

I will support the ongoing efforts to hold the superintendent and school committee accountable for the damage they've done, but for my own well-being, I cannot fight on the frontlines any longer.

The truth is that I was near the end of my career. My bittersweet departure is earlier than anticipated, but leaving now perhaps makes a bigger statement than waiting. Thoughtful citizens have and will continue to ask why now? I’ve given my honest answer, and if my decision to resign and the reasons behind it can lead to positive change for Wiscasset, then walking away from a career I love will be worth it.

Michelle Fraser

Litchfield