Dear Editor:
It is all about leadership and the path leaders decide to take. On July 9, 2010, I received a certified letter, (unsigned) informing me that the Secaucus Education Association, (SEA) has taken a vote of “no confidence” in the Superintendent and her Administration. The vote was 176 -27. Permit me to share with your readers, (in their own words) the reasons given for their “no confidence,” vote.
“The membership feels that the Superintendent and her Administration lacks the leadership skills needed to continue the level of educational excellence the students of Secaucus deserve. Her lack of communication, questionable hiring practices and a feeling of intimidation has had a negative impact on the educational infrastructure of the entire district.”
“The SEA hopes the trustees take our concerns seriously and will act accordingly keeping in mind the welfare of the students and the future of the Secaucus School District.”
Speaking as one on nine trustees on his Board, I can assure the SEA, parents, and taxpayers that I too want what is best for the students and the future of the district.
I did not choose to go down this “confidence-no confidence” path we have been placed in by the SEA. To say that I am saddened and ashamed by the position SEA has placed this Board in at this point in time goes without saying.
That being said, on July 22, 2010 the Board passed a vote of “complete and unequivocal confidence” in the Superintendent and her Administration. The vote was 7 – 1. One trustee was absent.
It has been said, “You do not lead by hitting other leaders over the head. That is not leadership. That falls into the assault category.
Tom Troyer