Dear Editor:

Within a few short months there has been so much animosity and discontent that the school has become divided. These allegations and accusations have painted a black cloud over the Wiscasset School District. 

Since the beginning of this process I've tried to stay neutral. As I have attended the entire hearing in person and watched this debacle unfold, a few things have stood out to me.

Professionalism is lacking with the current board. Throughout the hearing I witnessed laughs, shrugs and remarks, from board members. The tone of board members when they addressed Ms. Stevens was disrespectful and belittling. Questions in some cases had nothing to do with the topic or, had already been answered many times, showcasing a lack of awareness.

Leadership is lacking with the current board. The public has been left guessing on multiple occasions with no answers about process and procedures from the board. The chairman blatantly shows his emotion and disdain when he disagrees with some statements. We need someone who listens with an open mind to all the information presented. Then willingly guides and allows others and themselves to come to unbiased conclusions.

Fact driven decisions are lacking with the current board. The charges brought forth by the superintendent were mostly disproved, during the testimony, as facts overshadowed the emotional based testimony of the previous night. The closet was not an approved changing room, the “expelled” student was not expelled and is still receiving an education, and the self appointed tech director simply ignored the “tech ticket” email that was sent by the principal. Two students were guided to change in the closet unsupervised. Why were they allowed to change there in the first place? Therein lies the problem. 

I and many others believe the board's decision was not based on the facts, but perhaps friendships.

Brycson Grover

Wiscasset