LEE — Oyster River School Board Chair Henry Brackett didn't prematurely inform town selectmen that the School Board was forming an audit committee, according to recently corrected minutes from the May 10 meeting.
Brackett's appearance at the May 10 Board of Selectmen meeting drew the ire of former School Board Chair Mark Townsend, who had multiple concerns about Brackett's appearance at the meeting.
One of his main concerns was the fact that Brackett apparently told selectmen the school board would be forming an audit committee — nine days before the board voted to do so.
The initial draft of the May 10 meeting minutes reflects just that.
"Mr. Brackett announces an Audit committee will be formed," the meeting minutes state.
However, Town Secretary Dawn Hayes submitted a correction to those meeting minutes during the June 14 selectmen meeting.
According to the correction Brackett's exact words during the May 10 meeting were, "Right now we are talking about and hopefully finalizing about an audit committee."
Town Administrator Diane Guimond said the correction was made after Brackett came into the Town Hall and asked that the minutes be reviewed.
"I think it was a result of what was going on at the School Board, he wanted the minutes to be checked for the wording," Guimond said.
Guimond said the error in the minutes was caught after staff listened to a recording of the meeting. She said it's unfortunate there was an error in the minutes, but noted the minutes are only meant to be a summary of the meeting and the public is always welcome to have the minutes double checked.
"It's the nature of the beast," she said. "We reviewed the minutes and they were amended to reflect what was said."
Brackett appearance at the May 10 meeting set off a ripple effect that culminated with an uncomfortable School Board meeting on June 2.
Townsend had other concerns about Brackett's appearance at the May 10 selectmen's meeting including Brackett discussing school board business with selectmen without the instruction of the school board and challenging board operations to selectmen.
He brought up these concerns and others about the board in a late May e-mail where he sought legal opinions about Brackett's meeting with selectmen from board attorney Matt Upton and Barrett Christina, staff attorney for the New Hampshire School Boards Association.
The request for legal advice later turned into an e-mail chain where Townsend made allegations against other board members, causing board members to take offense when the e-mails were discussed at the June 2 School Board meeting.
Townsend resigned from the board on June 7 and Brackett was elected board chair over a week later.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
Improving District Central Office Communication
Today I met with Howard Colter (ORCSD Superintendent), Meredith Nadeau (ORCSD Director of Instruction), Jennifer Rief (ORCSD School Board member), and Ann Wright (ORCSD School Board member) to discuss a recent letter I sent to Howard requesting a monthly newsletter from his office (see original post discussing this letter).
The meeting became a broader discussion about District communication. I stressed that it is vital for the community at large to hear from the superintendent, such communication goes beyond individual principal's updates, PTO forums, and School Board newsletters. In particular, we talked about a two pronged approach where the superintendent provides a regular, written update (via listserv, e-mail, web site, etc.) coupled with regular, in-person, discussion groups.
The discussion groups are a vehicle to allow for face-to-face communication on topics of interest. These groups would be informal and open to the community at large. I welcome individuals to post topics of interest on this blog. I will then consolidate ideas/ suggestions and forward them onto Mr. Colter. Personally, I would like to see discussions on curricula and operational/facility improvements.
Finally, Mr. Colter reiterated to me that he is open to meeting directly with concerned parents about our District. I hope others, besides myself, take him up on his offer. In the mean time, I hope central office communications will improve and that some of my suggestions come to fruition.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Correction of Lee Selectmen Minutes
The mischaracterization of Henry's words and false accusations of "back-room deals" is resolved as the Lee Selectmen meeting minutes are revised to reflect the actual statement made by Henry which does not state that an audit has been decided.
Correction of Lee Selectmen Minutes
MINUTES OF THE BOARD OF SELECTMEN’S MEETING JUNE 14, 2010 PAGE 2
14. Town Secretary; Dawn Hayes submits and reads a correction to the minutes of May 10, 2010 for Henry Brackett (not present). His exact words were “Right now we are talking about and hopefully finalizing about an audit committee”.
Monday, June 21, 2010
SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER VACANCY
NOTICE Oyster River Cooperative School District SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER VACANCY June 10, 2010
The Oyster River Cooperative School District School Board is seeking a citizen from Madbury to fill the vacancy on the School Board until the next election on March 8, 2011.
Citizens are encouraged to submit a brief letter of interest and summary of qualifications to the School Board no later than Thursday, June 24, 2010.
Letters may be sent via email to wdifruscio@orcsd.org or delivered to SAU #5, 36 Coe Drive, Durham, NH 03824, Attn: Wendy DiFruscio. Our office is open from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm daily.
The School Board will review letters of interest and hold brief interviews at a special School Board meeting on Wednesday, June 30, 2010 @ 7:00 pm and select one citizen to fill the vacancy.
Citizens that submit a letter of interest will receive an invitation to meet the Board on the evening of June 30, 2010.
If you have any questions, please contact Wendy DiFruscio at 868-5100, ext 20, or email at wdifruscio@orcsd.org.
Business Administrator Vacancy Announcement
Business Administrator
SAU #05 - Durham
Oyster River Cooperative School District, Durham, NH
Salary TBD commensurate with experience (Permanent) + Full benefits package offered. *PLEASE DO NOT APPLY ELECTRONICALLY* Please mail: cover letter, resume, 3 letters of recommendation, and copies of cert and transcripts to:
ORCSD, 36 Coe Dr, Durham, NH 03824
Candidates must hold a NH cert as a B.A. or be eligible for a B.A. cert, must have a strong background and experience in Business Administration, school finance and operations.
job ref.#: SAU #5
tel: 868-5100 X18
fax: 603-868-6668
Deadline July 9, 2010
SAU #05 - Durham
Oyster River Cooperative School District, Durham, NH
Salary TBD commensurate with experience (Permanent) + Full benefits package offered. *PLEASE DO NOT APPLY ELECTRONICALLY* Please mail: cover letter, resume, 3 letters of recommendation, and copies of cert and transcripts to:
ORCSD, 36 Coe Dr, Durham, NH 03824
Candidates must hold a NH cert as a B.A. or be eligible for a B.A. cert, must have a strong background and experience in Business Administration, school finance and operations.
job ref.#: SAU #5
tel: 868-5100 X18
fax: 603-868-6668
Deadline July 9, 2010
June 2010 Board Newsletter
School Board Goals for 2010-2011
At this time of year, the School Board begins its discussion on a wide range of topics to be considered as School Board goals for the 2010-2011 year. These past few months of discussion have included a variety of topics and each year the board works towards determining those goals with the highest priority, a measurable outcome and have the support of a majority on the Board. This year several themes immediately percolated to the top and a board sub-committee was charged with articulating these goals for final board discussion. The sub-committee has also been drafting action items to be included under each topic. It is important to note that the list included below has not been formally adopted by the board at this point in time. The board anticipates finalizing board goals by the end of June.
1. Advance the District’s Mission Statement of “Working Together to Engage Every Learner”
2. Review and Adopt the Strategic Plan
3. Engender a Culture of Trust, Respect and Support
4. Streamline Board Operations
5. Maintain a Course of Fiscal Discipline
6. Enhance Communications
ORCSD Strategic Plan Update June 2010
The Strategic Oversight Planning Committee will be continuing its work throughout the summer and into the fall. Thanks to the work of many volunteers including staff representing each school and community members from all three towns, the committee has compiled an impressive amount of research regarding our district and educational trends.
The three working groups (including Operations, Student Achievement and Community) have completed their work and have presented their findings to the Oversight Committee. Three rounds of surveys have also been conducted including a staff survey, a student survey and most recently, a community survey. These findings will be used in the analysis phase of the strategic planning process this fall. The committee has decided to enlist the help of an experienced K-12 strategic planning facilitator in analyzing this data. The result of this analysis phase will be a list of potential strategic areas of focus.
Following the development of strategic areas of focus, the committee will hold a series of engagement evenings for staff, students and community this fall to review these findings and provide feedback. Based on this feedback, a final strategic plan will be developed and presented to the School Board for approval by January 2011. As always, if you are interested in providing feedback to the Oversight Committee, please contact us at stratplan@orcsd.org
Updates will be available on the Strategic Planning Website at: http://orcsdstrategicplan.wetpaint.com/
Thank you to all the volunteers who have generously contributed their time and energy to this exciting process.
Jocelyn O’Quinn, co-chair, Strategic Planning Oversight Committee Paula Roy, co-chair, Strategic Planning Oversight Committee
Respectfully Submitted: The Oyster River Cooperative School Board
School Board Newsletter Link:
Rochester's New Finance Director from ORCSD
ROCHESTER — The city has reached into the talent pool of the Oyster River Cooperative School District to find a replacement for former finance director Brian LeBrun.
City Manager John Scruton recently announced the hiring of Blaine Cox, a Lee resident and the business administrator for the Oyster River school district in Durham. Cox has served in that position since 2001.
The hiring comes after the April resignation of LeBrun, who accepted the position of finance director in Concord. LeBrun's absence has made for a sometimes challenging budget season for Rochester officials this year, and Scruton said he wishes Cox had come along sooner in the interview process.
"If I could have hired him in April, I would have," he said. "It takes time when you're hiring senior management."
There were 59 applicants for the position, including some from as far away as California and Florida, Scruton said. Cox's application came in as part of a third round of interviews, and the hiring committee team Scruton assembled unanimously supported Cox's hiring, Scruton said.
That committee's membership fluctuated over time, but those involved in reviewing resumes included Scruton, auditor Bob Vachon, LeBrun, interim finance director Roland Connors, Finance office assistant Shirley McCrillis, Planning Director Kenn Ortmann, Economic Development Manager Karen Pollard, Mayor T.J. Jean, Human Resources manager Diane Hoyt and Police Chief David Dubois. Scruton said he wanted a variety of perspectives.
"I felt they had good managerial experience," he said.
Scruton came away from an interview with Cox impressed with his "energy and vitality" and his understanding of finance. He said Cox's resume showed a long tenure in a responsible finance position and came with excellent references.
"I'm enthusiastic we found such a quality candidate," he said.
As Oyster River business administrator, Cox managed a $23 million renovation and addition at Oyster River High School, worked as part of the district's leadership team on budget and policy development, served as lead administrator on the negotiations team for four collective bargaining agreements and was responsible for coordinating annual town meeting warrants, legal postings and ballot preparations.
Before he joined the school district, Cox was the town administrator in Epping from 1998 until 2001. Before that, he was properties manager for the University of New Hampshire. Cox graduated from the school with a Bachelor's degree in political science in 1984 and with a master's in public administration in 1998.
He is also a part-time adjunct professor of the university's Education Department, teaching finance and business management. He serves on the board of directors for the New Hampshire Local Government Center.
"It is with mixed emotions that I leave Oyster River as I will miss the tremendous people who work in the district here," Cox said in a statement issued by the city manager. "However, I look forward to working for such a great city as Rochester, N.H. I am confident that my skills and experiences will serve the city well and I look forward to making whatever contribution I can to the success of Rochester's future."
Scruton said Cox will join the city on July 19.
City Manager John Scruton recently announced the hiring of Blaine Cox, a Lee resident and the business administrator for the Oyster River school district in Durham. Cox has served in that position since 2001.
The hiring comes after the April resignation of LeBrun, who accepted the position of finance director in Concord. LeBrun's absence has made for a sometimes challenging budget season for Rochester officials this year, and Scruton said he wishes Cox had come along sooner in the interview process.
"If I could have hired him in April, I would have," he said. "It takes time when you're hiring senior management."
There were 59 applicants for the position, including some from as far away as California and Florida, Scruton said. Cox's application came in as part of a third round of interviews, and the hiring committee team Scruton assembled unanimously supported Cox's hiring, Scruton said.
That committee's membership fluctuated over time, but those involved in reviewing resumes included Scruton, auditor Bob Vachon, LeBrun, interim finance director Roland Connors, Finance office assistant Shirley McCrillis, Planning Director Kenn Ortmann, Economic Development Manager Karen Pollard, Mayor T.J. Jean, Human Resources manager Diane Hoyt and Police Chief David Dubois. Scruton said he wanted a variety of perspectives.
"I felt they had good managerial experience," he said.
Scruton came away from an interview with Cox impressed with his "energy and vitality" and his understanding of finance. He said Cox's resume showed a long tenure in a responsible finance position and came with excellent references.
"I'm enthusiastic we found such a quality candidate," he said.
As Oyster River business administrator, Cox managed a $23 million renovation and addition at Oyster River High School, worked as part of the district's leadership team on budget and policy development, served as lead administrator on the negotiations team for four collective bargaining agreements and was responsible for coordinating annual town meeting warrants, legal postings and ballot preparations.
Before he joined the school district, Cox was the town administrator in Epping from 1998 until 2001. Before that, he was properties manager for the University of New Hampshire. Cox graduated from the school with a Bachelor's degree in political science in 1984 and with a master's in public administration in 1998.
He is also a part-time adjunct professor of the university's Education Department, teaching finance and business management. He serves on the board of directors for the New Hampshire Local Government Center.
"It is with mixed emotions that I leave Oyster River as I will miss the tremendous people who work in the district here," Cox said in a statement issued by the city manager. "However, I look forward to working for such a great city as Rochester, N.H. I am confident that my skills and experiences will serve the city well and I look forward to making whatever contribution I can to the success of Rochester's future."
Scruton said Cox will join the city on July 19.
Saturday, June 19, 2010
Diner owner denies e-mail claims from former OR chair
LEE — The owner of Gauthier's 125 Restaurant disputes one of the claim's made by the former Oyster River School Board chair in a controversial e-mail chain released earlier this week.
In the e-mail chain former Board Chair Mark Townsend alleged he was eating breakfast with Henry Brackett when the owner of the restaurant confronted Brackett about him talking School Board business at her restaurant.
"The owner came to the table just as I received coffee and informed Henry Brackett that he needed to stop discussing school board business in her diner (we hadn't begun to talk yet.) She informed Henry that customers were complaining about the impropriety of it and warned Henry that people were also purposely sitting close so they could learn of school district issues."
Restaurant Owner Misty Gauthier said that while Brackett has been to her restaurant before, neither she nor anyone on her staff has ever confronted him about talking about School Board issues at the restaurant.
She said Brackett has discussed School Board business with others at the restaurant and there have been occasions where customers have moved away from him because they didn't want to hear about it.
"In my experience, they've never been obnoxious," she said.
She said there have also been occasions where customers have approached Brackett to discuss School Board issues.
Brackett hasn't been in the restaurant recently, Gauthier said.
Townsend's e-mail chain was a result of him seeking a legal opinion about Brackett's actions at a Lee Board of Selectmen's meeting in May where Brackett, as private citizen, spoke about School Board issues and gave opinions.
Townsend said Brackett did this without board authorization.
Barrett Christina, staff attorney for the New Hampshire School Boards Association, told Townsend via e-mail that while it appears Brackett may have violated School Board policy, there wasn't enough information to determine if any laws were broken.
He told the board to seek common ground on whatever issues they have.
Townsend resigned from the board on June 7.
In the e-mail chain former Board Chair Mark Townsend alleged he was eating breakfast with Henry Brackett when the owner of the restaurant confronted Brackett about him talking School Board business at her restaurant.
"The owner came to the table just as I received coffee and informed Henry Brackett that he needed to stop discussing school board business in her diner (we hadn't begun to talk yet.) She informed Henry that customers were complaining about the impropriety of it and warned Henry that people were also purposely sitting close so they could learn of school district issues."
Restaurant Owner Misty Gauthier said that while Brackett has been to her restaurant before, neither she nor anyone on her staff has ever confronted him about talking about School Board issues at the restaurant.
She said Brackett has discussed School Board business with others at the restaurant and there have been occasions where customers have moved away from him because they didn't want to hear about it.
"In my experience, they've never been obnoxious," she said.
She said there have also been occasions where customers have approached Brackett to discuss School Board issues.
Brackett hasn't been in the restaurant recently, Gauthier said.
Townsend's e-mail chain was a result of him seeking a legal opinion about Brackett's actions at a Lee Board of Selectmen's meeting in May where Brackett, as private citizen, spoke about School Board issues and gave opinions.
Townsend said Brackett did this without board authorization.
Barrett Christina, staff attorney for the New Hampshire School Boards Association, told Townsend via e-mail that while it appears Brackett may have violated School Board policy, there wasn't enough information to determine if any laws were broken.
He told the board to seek common ground on whatever issues they have.
Townsend resigned from the board on June 7.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Breaking News: ORCSD Business Administrator Resigns?
Hello,
There was an anonymous post on the blog this morning saying Blaine Cox resigned. I responded saying don't spread rumors like that. This anonymous posted replied saying the position was posted. I went and checked and sure enough there is an opening for a Business Administrator at ORCSD.
I don't know why Mr. Cox resigned. Whatever the reason, I wish to thank him for his service and wish him well in his new endeavors whatever they may be. While Mr. Cox and I didn't see eye to eye on a couple of issues, I attended the budget community workshops and admired his willingness to answer questions for people such as myself. I also worked with him briefly on the strategic plan working groups and he was very willing to get the information requested from the groups. Finally, it was no small feat to bring in the budget at less than 2% last year and he should be thanked for guiding us through that time period.
Good luck, Blaine!
There was an anonymous post on the blog this morning saying Blaine Cox resigned. I responded saying don't spread rumors like that. This anonymous posted replied saying the position was posted. I went and checked and sure enough there is an opening for a Business Administrator at ORCSD.
I don't know why Mr. Cox resigned. Whatever the reason, I wish to thank him for his service and wish him well in his new endeavors whatever they may be. While Mr. Cox and I didn't see eye to eye on a couple of issues, I attended the budget community workshops and admired his willingness to answer questions for people such as myself. I also worked with him briefly on the strategic plan working groups and he was very willing to get the information requested from the groups. Finally, it was no small feat to bring in the budget at less than 2% last year and he should be thanked for guiding us through that time period.
Good luck, Blaine!
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Fosters: Oyster River school board e-mails released: Missives allege improprieties among panelists
Link: PDF file of e-mail chain
DURHAM — A unanimous vote by the Oyster River School Board to waive attorney/client privilege brought about the release of a controversial e-mail chain involving the former chair of the School Board.
The e-mails were released Wednesday following a special board meeting Tuesday night. The special meeting followed a legal consultation between the board and its attorney, Matt Upton.
While the e-mail chain starts with former School Board Chair Mark Townsend seeking a legal opinion about the actions of Board Co-chair Henry Brackett at a May 10 Lee Board of Selectmen's meeting, it later turns into a list of other allegations and comments about the board.
The e-mail chain started in late May when Townsend sent e-mails to Upton and Barrett Christina, staff attorney for the New Hampshire School Boards Association.
According to a May 27 e-mail to Upton, Townsend had four concerns about Brackett's actions which include, Brackett discussing school board business with selectmen without the instruction of the school board and Brackett telling selectmen the school board would be forming an audit committee — nine days before the board voted to do so.
Townsend was also concerned about Brackett challenging board operations to selectmen. According to the minutes of that selectmen's meeting, Brackett spoke as a private citizen and not a member of the School Board.
Townsend also alleges that Brackett provided instruction to other School Board members to conduct discussions of items on the agenda prior to the legal board meetings.
In a May 27 e-mail to Christina, Townsend lays out more allegations against Brackett and other members of the board.
"I would also add that Henry asked to meet just after we were elected Chair and Vice Chair (respectively). We had breakfast at the Route 125 Diner in Lee, NH," Townsend's e-mail reads. "The owner came to the table just as I received coffee and informed Henry Brackett that he needed to stop discussing school board business in her diner (we hadn't begun to talk yet.) She informed Henry that customers were complaining about the impropriety of it and warned Henry that people were also purposely sitting close so they could learn of school district issues."
Neither Brackett nor the owners of Gauthier's 125 Restaurant could be reached for comment on Wednesday.
Townsend goes on to allege in the e-mail to Christina that Brackett and Board Members Jocelyn O'Quinn, Ann Wright and Krista Butts worked together to push a discussion on forming an audit committee during the May 5 meeting, when such an item wasn't on the agenda.
He said the four "derailed" that meeting with a fast motion and second to put the discussion on the agenda.
"It seemed to me and (Board Members) JoAnn (Portalupi) and Jennifer (Rief) that this was a prior discussion amongst a potential quorum of the board that was not in compliance with NH RSA," Townsend wrote in the e-mail. "I will note that Mrs. Wright's husband — Tom Louriero — is a corporate attorney (chief legal officer) of the company in which I am employed. Ann is good at researching a topic that interests her, but lacks experience on a board and does not seek to understand the basics of how a board works."
Wright took exception to Townsend's comment in the e-mail and brought it up during the June 2 board meeting, where she demanded an apology.
Townsend resigned from his post a week later, but said the decision wasn't because of the e-mails.
Townsend told Foster's on Wednesday the only reason he sought a legal opinion is because these issues with Brackett and other board members were recurring. Without giving specific examples, he said there have been multiple times when certain members of the board would talk about an issue and then contact him to either put it on the agenda or call a special meeting about the issue.
Townsend said it isn't against the law for two board members to have a conversation but it becomes a problem when those conversations become consecutive with other board members and an agreement is made with a quorum of the board.
"This isn't a one time pattern with the board — it's a repetitive pattern," he said. "Just because you have the right to do, doesn't mean that ethically you should."
It's unknown what Upton's legal opinion about Townsend's concerns was. The board only waived attorney/client privilege in relation to Townsend's correspondence with Christina. In addition, Upton said he didn't have any e-mail correspondence with Townsend and only spoke with him by phone.
Christina told Townsend via e-mail that it appears Brackett may have violated school board policies but there wasn't enough information to determine if any laws were broken.
Christina indicated in the e-mail that Upton gave a similar opinion.
"Whatever remaining conflicts or disagreements the board has, I again urge the board to seek some common ground as to how it will communicate and operate going forward."
The School Board released the following statement after the e-mails were released.
"In releasing these communication it is our shared commitment to move forward in the spirit of openness, cooperation, and respect."
DURHAM — A unanimous vote by the Oyster River School Board to waive attorney/client privilege brought about the release of a controversial e-mail chain involving the former chair of the School Board.
The e-mails were released Wednesday following a special board meeting Tuesday night. The special meeting followed a legal consultation between the board and its attorney, Matt Upton.
While the e-mail chain starts with former School Board Chair Mark Townsend seeking a legal opinion about the actions of Board Co-chair Henry Brackett at a May 10 Lee Board of Selectmen's meeting, it later turns into a list of other allegations and comments about the board.
The e-mail chain started in late May when Townsend sent e-mails to Upton and Barrett Christina, staff attorney for the New Hampshire School Boards Association.
According to a May 27 e-mail to Upton, Townsend had four concerns about Brackett's actions which include, Brackett discussing school board business with selectmen without the instruction of the school board and Brackett telling selectmen the school board would be forming an audit committee — nine days before the board voted to do so.
Townsend was also concerned about Brackett challenging board operations to selectmen. According to the minutes of that selectmen's meeting, Brackett spoke as a private citizen and not a member of the School Board.
Townsend also alleges that Brackett provided instruction to other School Board members to conduct discussions of items on the agenda prior to the legal board meetings.
In a May 27 e-mail to Christina, Townsend lays out more allegations against Brackett and other members of the board.
"I would also add that Henry asked to meet just after we were elected Chair and Vice Chair (respectively). We had breakfast at the Route 125 Diner in Lee, NH," Townsend's e-mail reads. "The owner came to the table just as I received coffee and informed Henry Brackett that he needed to stop discussing school board business in her diner (we hadn't begun to talk yet.) She informed Henry that customers were complaining about the impropriety of it and warned Henry that people were also purposely sitting close so they could learn of school district issues."
Neither Brackett nor the owners of Gauthier's 125 Restaurant could be reached for comment on Wednesday.
Townsend goes on to allege in the e-mail to Christina that Brackett and Board Members Jocelyn O'Quinn, Ann Wright and Krista Butts worked together to push a discussion on forming an audit committee during the May 5 meeting, when such an item wasn't on the agenda.
He said the four "derailed" that meeting with a fast motion and second to put the discussion on the agenda.
"It seemed to me and (Board Members) JoAnn (Portalupi) and Jennifer (Rief) that this was a prior discussion amongst a potential quorum of the board that was not in compliance with NH RSA," Townsend wrote in the e-mail. "I will note that Mrs. Wright's husband — Tom Louriero — is a corporate attorney (chief legal officer) of the company in which I am employed. Ann is good at researching a topic that interests her, but lacks experience on a board and does not seek to understand the basics of how a board works."
Wright took exception to Townsend's comment in the e-mail and brought it up during the June 2 board meeting, where she demanded an apology.
Townsend resigned from his post a week later, but said the decision wasn't because of the e-mails.
Townsend told Foster's on Wednesday the only reason he sought a legal opinion is because these issues with Brackett and other board members were recurring. Without giving specific examples, he said there have been multiple times when certain members of the board would talk about an issue and then contact him to either put it on the agenda or call a special meeting about the issue.
Townsend said it isn't against the law for two board members to have a conversation but it becomes a problem when those conversations become consecutive with other board members and an agreement is made with a quorum of the board.
"This isn't a one time pattern with the board — it's a repetitive pattern," he said. "Just because you have the right to do, doesn't mean that ethically you should."
It's unknown what Upton's legal opinion about Townsend's concerns was. The board only waived attorney/client privilege in relation to Townsend's correspondence with Christina. In addition, Upton said he didn't have any e-mail correspondence with Townsend and only spoke with him by phone.
Christina told Townsend via e-mail that it appears Brackett may have violated school board policies but there wasn't enough information to determine if any laws were broken.
Christina indicated in the e-mail that Upton gave a similar opinion.
"Whatever remaining conflicts or disagreements the board has, I again urge the board to seek some common ground as to how it will communicate and operate going forward."
The School Board released the following statement after the e-mails were released.
"In releasing these communication it is our shared commitment to move forward in the spirit of openness, cooperation, and respect."
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
New Chair and Vice chair elected
At tonight's meeting Henry Brackett was elected chair 4-2 with Jennifer and Joann against.
Jocelyn O'Quinn was elected vice chair unanimously.
Jocelyn O'Quinn was elected vice chair unanimously.
Mark Townsend/Attorney Email String
The school board has granted the release of these emails. As promised in an earlier post, they are at the link below.
Thanks!
Mark Townsend Email String
Reminder: Follow Oyster River Community on Facebook!
Thanks!
Mark Townsend Email String
Reminder: Follow Oyster River Community on Facebook!
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
School Board Special Meeting June 15, 2010 SAU Conference Room
REVISED Time Change
AGENDA Oyster River Cooperative School District
School Board Special Meeting June 15, 2010 SAU Conference Room
I Non-Meeting Consultation with Legal Counsel under RSA 91-A:2 I (c)
II Call to Order
III Action Item
IV. Adjournment
The School Board reserves the right to take action on any item on the agenda.
Respectfully submitted, Howard Colter, Superintendent
SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER VACANCY
NOTICE Oyster River Cooperative School District SCHOOL BOARD MEMBER VACANCY June 10, 2010
The Oyster River Cooperative School District School Board is seeking a citizen from Madbury to fill the vacancy on the School Board until the next election on March 8, 2011.
Citizens are encouraged to submit a brief letter of interest and summary of qualifications to the School Board no later than Thursday, June 24, 2010. Letters may be sent via email to wdifruscio@orcsd.org or delivered to SAU #5, 36 Coe Drive, Durham, NH 03824, Attn: Wendy DiFruscio. Our office is open from 7:30 am to 4:00 pm daily.
The School Board will review letters of interest and hold brief interviews at a special School Board meeting on Wednesday, June 30, 2010 @ 7:00 pm and select one citizen to fill the vacancy.
Citizens that submit a letter of interest will receive an invitation to meet the Board on the evening of June 30, 2010.
If you have any questions, please contact Wendy DiFruscio at 868-5100, ext 20, or email at wdifruscio@orcsd.org.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
Suggestion to Superintendent Colter to Improve Communication
On Friday, June 11, 2010, I sent a letter to Superintendent Colter and copied the School Board suggesting the Superintendent issue a monthly letter to the Oyster River community (see full text of letter below).
That same day I was happy to hear back from Mr. Colter who offered to meet to discuss my suggestion. I view this as positive step towards increased District communication.
***
Dear Mr. Colter:
In my own effort to see how our District can improve communication, I searched through available correspondence on the ORCSD web site. The most recent correspondence I found was a January 2010 Board Newsletter addressing, primarily, the upcoming warrant articles and the 2010 Report of the District (containing mostly statistics/data). Besides these documents, I found no letters from your office to the greater Oyster River community.
I have a suggestion, and forgive my boldness. Would you please start issuing a monthly letter via the ORCSD web site and to subscribers on a specific listserv to the Oyster River Community? The monthly letter would address the following:
* Superintendent's thoughts on the educational vision for our District
* Progress on major educational, operational, and other program initiatives
* Profiles on outstanding students from each school
* Special awards/recognition of teachers/staff
* Anything else you think appropriate (e.g., other District activities, major educational policies from the State level, etc.)
I realize that many items in this monthly letter may be redundant with what you report during regular Board meetings. However, I think a monthly newsletter would be extremely helpful, especially to inform the vast majority of community members who do not watch/attend Board meetings.
If you would like, I and other community members could help craft the format of the letter in greater detail. I may be reached via e-mail (XXX@XXXX) or phone (XXX-XXXX) to set up a meeting to pursue this in detail.
At the May 19, 2010 School Board meeting, I mentioned how I wish to see the Board instill policy and practice that will ensure that our District staff is successful. Although I was referring to fiscal practices, I feel this statement applies to your office's communication as well. Our children's education is on the line and we need to strive for more open communication. Thank you for your time.
Thursday, June 10, 2010
OR School Board Has Much to Explain
Op/Ed in Fosters today...Join us on Facebook!
The Oyster River School Board may be within its rights to not release a controversial e-mail chain between former School Board Chair Mark Townsend and attorneys from the district and the New Hampshire School Board Association.
That said, the board should waive attorney-client privilege and release the e-mails in the name of open and transparent governance.
The e-mails had been requested by Foster's Daily Democrat and district residents to shed light on the recent resignation of Townsend and allegations leveled by and against him. These allegations include personal wranglings between Townsend and board member Ann Wright over comments allegedly made about her family.
In addition, Townsend leveled charges of "backroom deals" and a "toxic" board environment when he announced his resignation Monday.
Under the state's Right-to-Know Law, attorney-client communications can be withheld from the public, but don't have to be.
Most often this exclusion is used when boards seek advice concerning personnel problems, labor contracts or land purchases — not nasty internal board matters.
In the case of the Oyster River School Board, the e-mail exchange was brought on by Townsend seeking a legal opinion about "the proper role of the board and individual members with respect to communication with town officials," according to Superintendent Howard Colter.
But while the Right-to-Know Law allows legal correspondence to be withheld, it requires matters concerning board members to be aired in public.
The decision to withhold the e-mails comes down on the wrong side of this fine line.
The public has a right to know what is going on among board members — their elected public officials. In this case, the information is particularly important because of Townsend's allegations the board is essentially dysfunctional. And further, that it is doing business behind closed doors, i.e. backroom deals.
The latter charge, in particular, raises the specter of illegal behavior on the part of board members.
In the long run, refusing to release the e-mails will do more harm than good. It will leave lingering doubt over the veracity of all school board members and their actions.
That serves neither the residents of the Oyster River School District nor its students.
The Oyster River School Board may be within its rights to not release a controversial e-mail chain between former School Board Chair Mark Townsend and attorneys from the district and the New Hampshire School Board Association.
That said, the board should waive attorney-client privilege and release the e-mails in the name of open and transparent governance.
The e-mails had been requested by Foster's Daily Democrat and district residents to shed light on the recent resignation of Townsend and allegations leveled by and against him. These allegations include personal wranglings between Townsend and board member Ann Wright over comments allegedly made about her family.
In addition, Townsend leveled charges of "backroom deals" and a "toxic" board environment when he announced his resignation Monday.
Under the state's Right-to-Know Law, attorney-client communications can be withheld from the public, but don't have to be.
Most often this exclusion is used when boards seek advice concerning personnel problems, labor contracts or land purchases — not nasty internal board matters.
In the case of the Oyster River School Board, the e-mail exchange was brought on by Townsend seeking a legal opinion about "the proper role of the board and individual members with respect to communication with town officials," according to Superintendent Howard Colter.
But while the Right-to-Know Law allows legal correspondence to be withheld, it requires matters concerning board members to be aired in public.
The decision to withhold the e-mails comes down on the wrong side of this fine line.
The public has a right to know what is going on among board members — their elected public officials. In this case, the information is particularly important because of Townsend's allegations the board is essentially dysfunctional. And further, that it is doing business behind closed doors, i.e. backroom deals.
The latter charge, in particular, raises the specter of illegal behavior on the part of board members.
In the long run, refusing to release the e-mails will do more harm than good. It will leave lingering doubt over the veracity of all school board members and their actions.
That serves neither the residents of the Oyster River School District nor its students.
From Kim Clark - Former Board Chair
I am sure some will roll their eyes that I am making a statement, so if that is the case, commence with the eye roll now.
I am deeply saddened by the recent occurrences on the School Board. It is very difficult to know just how challenging the task of a Board member is until you actually find yourself sitting in that hot seat every other Wednesday night. I hope we all continually strive to understand a Board member is constantly trying to balance and prioritize both public and non-public information to make the best decisions they are capable of, and I believe we all need to support those willing to volunteer their time even when we disagree with their positions and opinions. This doesn’t mean we should stop voicing our interests and concerns given that the Board is intended to be an extension of us, the voters, and they can’t do their job without knowing what we want.
Inexperience is nothing new to this School Board or any Oyster River Cooperative School Board that has come before it. I hope that we can get over that label and certainly stop using it as an excuse for why things are the way they are. I personally believe that diversity across the members, critical thinkers and fresh ideas are far more important than experience for a School Board to be effective and progressive, especially today.
In regards to the e-mails, in my experience on the Board we often did seek “legal opinion”. The Board can meet and vote as to whether or not to release a “legal opinion”. I would like to know when the Board met, discussed and voted on this issue. I would like to know what the vote was. This all should be public record.
If the Board did not meet to discuss the release or non-release of these e-mails, and have not voted, then I am curious as to why Superintendent Colter would make the statement in yesterday’s Foster’s that this had indeed occurred. This distinction will be important to clarify, in order to prevent the public from making assumptions.
I also am curious about whether the emails in question came from the district attorney or the New Hampshire School Board Association, because there is a big difference between the two. I would point out that an “opinion” from the New Hampshire School Board Association is different than a “legal opinion” from an attorney. At the bottom of each e-mail from the NHSBA it specifically states “”The information provided here does not establish an attorney client relationship”, so is not subject to the rules governing attorney client privilege.
Also, at the bottom of each e-mail from the school district it states, “The right to know law provides that most e-mail communications, to or from school district employees regarding the business of the school district, are government records available to the public upon request.”
I am sure some will say releasing the e-mails will only cause more of a problem. I don’t agree, and in my past Board experience, not being open with the public and not communication effectively with the public is what seems to be the core driver behind many of the Board’s issues. The assumption of what may be in the e-mails, in my opinion, is worse than what may be in those e-mails.
I also hope the assertion of “back room deals” will stop immediately or be backed up with some kind of evidence. My sense is there were none, except in the imagination of some. My evidence is that I called a School Board Representative, and asked, as all citizens have a right to do. Maybe even more to the point; it is perfectly legal for Board members to discuss issues outside of Board meetings as long as they don’t have a quorum or sequential communication on a specific topic. As stated from the NH School board association and the training guide “Becoming a better board member.”
- Is a board member allowed to discuss agenda items with one other board member outside of a meeting?
1. Yes, a board member is allowed to discuss agenda items with another board member outside of a meeting. So long as a quorum is not involved in the actual discussion, the discussion does not constitute a meeting with the definition of “meeting” under RSA 91-A:2. However, there are a few caveats.
RSA 91-A:2-a, II states: “Communications outside a meeting, including, but not limited to, sequential communications among members of a public body, shall not be used to circumvent the spirit and purpose of this chapter as expressed in RSA 91-A:1.”
Thus, it would be ill-advised and likely contrary to the provisions of the Right to Know law to consult with board member outside of a meeting, then to immediately consult with a second board member about the same topic or item, and then to immediately consult with a third board about the same topic, and so forth. These would fit within the meaning of “sequential communication” and would likely violate the Right to Know law.
These accusations not supported with hard facts are dangerous, and this recent situation proves this.
Our newest members of the Board, as well as those who have been serving for some time, all care about making our district greater than it is. Let us support them in moving ahead, and stop the attacks on board members who give countless hours to their community.
Of most importance, I hope our teachers are able to finish off this school year knowing that most in the community support all that they do and continue to believe we have a great school district.
Thank you,
Kim Clark
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
School Board Chair Needs to Apologize - UPDATE
Here is the response I got today from the SAU on the RSA request for the email trail talked about at the last meeting. I guess Foster's was told the same thing.
At the present time the School Board is seeking legal counsel, but the preliminary indication is that this is Attorney Client privileged information and therefore of a nonpublic nature.
Thanks for all the comments. The visitors on the blog have more than tripled since last week. I especially appreciate all teachers and staff commenting. It provides insight on both sides that the public doesn't usually get to hear.
So, thank you, and a special thanks for being unified on how great the teachers and students are in our district!!!
By the way....we are on Facebook. Click here
At the present time the School Board is seeking legal counsel, but the preliminary indication is that this is Attorney Client privileged information and therefore of a nonpublic nature.
Thanks for all the comments. The visitors on the blog have more than tripled since last week. I especially appreciate all teachers and staff commenting. It provides insight on both sides that the public doesn't usually get to hear.
So, thank you, and a special thanks for being unified on how great the teachers and students are in our district!!!
By the way....we are on Facebook. Click here
Oyster River School Board Won't Release Emails
DURHAM — The Oyster River School Board will not release a controversial e-mail chain between former School Board Chair Mark Townsend and attorneys from the district and the New Hampshire School Board Association, according to Superintendent Howard Colter.
Colter said the e-mail exchange was brought on by Townsend seeking a legal opinion about "the proper role of the board and individual members with respect to communication with town officials."
However, there were accusations made at the June 2 School Board meeting, which was public, that Townsend made comments about board member Ann Wright's family and made accusations against the board in the e-mails.
In addition to Foster's, a few district residents have also requested the e-mails, according to Colter. Colter said the board has decided not to release the e-mails at the advice of its attorney.
"It's being treated as privileged correspondence between attorney/client," Colter said.
Townsend resigned from his post on Monday morning. He said the e-mails had nothing to do with his resignation.
Neither Colter nor Townsend would confirm what incident brought on the need for a legal opinion.
Board members do communicate with their respective towns from time to time in order to update them on board business.
More recently, board member Henry Brackett spoke as a private citizen about School Board business to the Lee Board of Selectmen on May 10.
According to meeting minutes, Brackett did express some opinions about how the School Board conducts business, including an exchange about bidding procedures and the way warrant articles are worded.
There was also one exchange with selectmen about transparency on the school board.
"Selectman (Frank) DeRocchi states he would like to work with the other towns to gain transparency. Selectman (James) Griswold asks how we obtain transparency in the School District," according to the meeting minutes. "Mr. Brackett states that it helps that the School Board has recently changed with two members; Krista Butts and Ann Wright, both ask many questions."
Brackett couldn't be reached for comment on Tuesday.
Tonight the School Board will begin the process of choosing a new board chair and addressing the open position on the board, according to Colter.
Colter expressed disappointment over Townsend's resignation on Monday and noted that Townsend was very active on board subcommittees.
"I was sorry to see him step down. I think he was a valuable member of the School Board," he said.
Townsend cited the board not following procedures along with "backroom deals" as reasons for his resignation.
Colter admitted the board has gone through some rough patches this year in regard to following procedure; a fact he said could be attributed to board inexperience.
"I really respect the School Board as a whole," he said. "They're learning their roles as a board and learning each other and I have every confidence they will learn the job and come together as a cohesive team."
Tonight's special meeting of the Oyster River School Board is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at the Oyster River High School.
Colter said the e-mail exchange was brought on by Townsend seeking a legal opinion about "the proper role of the board and individual members with respect to communication with town officials."
However, there were accusations made at the June 2 School Board meeting, which was public, that Townsend made comments about board member Ann Wright's family and made accusations against the board in the e-mails.
In addition to Foster's, a few district residents have also requested the e-mails, according to Colter. Colter said the board has decided not to release the e-mails at the advice of its attorney.
"It's being treated as privileged correspondence between attorney/client," Colter said.
Townsend resigned from his post on Monday morning. He said the e-mails had nothing to do with his resignation.
Neither Colter nor Townsend would confirm what incident brought on the need for a legal opinion.
Board members do communicate with their respective towns from time to time in order to update them on board business.
More recently, board member Henry Brackett spoke as a private citizen about School Board business to the Lee Board of Selectmen on May 10.
According to meeting minutes, Brackett did express some opinions about how the School Board conducts business, including an exchange about bidding procedures and the way warrant articles are worded.
There was also one exchange with selectmen about transparency on the school board.
"Selectman (Frank) DeRocchi states he would like to work with the other towns to gain transparency. Selectman (James) Griswold asks how we obtain transparency in the School District," according to the meeting minutes. "Mr. Brackett states that it helps that the School Board has recently changed with two members; Krista Butts and Ann Wright, both ask many questions."
Brackett couldn't be reached for comment on Tuesday.
Tonight the School Board will begin the process of choosing a new board chair and addressing the open position on the board, according to Colter.
Colter expressed disappointment over Townsend's resignation on Monday and noted that Townsend was very active on board subcommittees.
"I was sorry to see him step down. I think he was a valuable member of the School Board," he said.
Townsend cited the board not following procedures along with "backroom deals" as reasons for his resignation.
Colter admitted the board has gone through some rough patches this year in regard to following procedure; a fact he said could be attributed to board inexperience.
"I really respect the School Board as a whole," he said. "They're learning their roles as a board and learning each other and I have every confidence they will learn the job and come together as a cohesive team."
Tonight's special meeting of the Oyster River School Board is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. at the Oyster River High School.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
ORCSD School Board Chair Resigns...again
Oyster River School Board chair resigns citing 'backroom deals' By Aaron Sanborn
asanborn@fosters.com
DURHAM — For the second time in less than a year, the person serving as the chair of the Oyster River School Board has resigned.
Mark Townsend submitted his letter of resignation to the board Monday morning after serving on the board for just over a year
Townsend, of Madbury, didn't elaborate on his reasons for resigning, only saying that the board not following procedures along with "backroom deals" contributed to his decision.
"Participation on this board has always been challenging, and for the better part of my first year the challenge was also rewarding," Townsend said in his letter of resignation. "This year the environment has been increasingly toxic. We moved from a board equally balanced on experience to a very inexperienced board. This has not helped."
Townsend went on to call the board "divided" and questioned whether or not the board is working together as a board of seven or a smaller number.
"Accountability starts at the board," his letter said. "Many ran on the platform of accountability, yet still have not accounted for their inexperience or mistakes."
Townsend was at the center of an uncomfortable moment at the board's last meeting on June 2, where he was accused of writing disparaging e-mails about the board and a board member's family.
He said those e-mails had nothing to do with his resignation but said what happened at that meeting helped to finalize his decision.
According to video from the meeting, Townsend was discussing e-mails between him and the district's attorneys regarding an opinion he was seeking. During that discussion, Board Member Ann Wright expressed concern about a comment Townsend wrote in the e-mail about her family, along with other allegations he made against the board.
"I don't appreciate you mentioning my family in an e-mail to an attorney and disparaging me to an attorney," Wright told Townsend during the meeting. "I found it hurtful. We have a board goal of unity ... and I find it's going to be very very difficult right now to achieve that after reading your e-mails, your accusations in there."
Townsend commented during the meeting that he didn't know which e-mails Wright was referring to.
Townsend declined to discuss the nature of the e-mails with Foster's on Monday, calling them "privileged information."
Wright didn't return a call Monday seeking comment.
Amid growing public concerns about transparency on the board, much of the board's recent discussion have centered around the creation of a budget advisory committee and an audit committee, issues that have divided the board at time.
Townsend briefly acknowledged those two issues in his resignation letter.
"I see focus on two financial pieces, yet for all the focus on money where is the focus on education?" he said. "This board will face many challenges this year, but I sincerely hope that it does not forget its first charge — to ensure the education of our children."
Townsend said he plans on going back to being a regular citizen with "a bad taste in his mouth of public service."
Finding new board members is nothing new to the School Board.
In December, former board chair Kimberly Clark resigned citing a "lack of trust and mutual respect" on the board.
Shirley Thompson, a former board member, resigned a year earlier.
asanborn@fosters.com
DURHAM — For the second time in less than a year, the person serving as the chair of the Oyster River School Board has resigned.
Mark Townsend submitted his letter of resignation to the board Monday morning after serving on the board for just over a year
Townsend, of Madbury, didn't elaborate on his reasons for resigning, only saying that the board not following procedures along with "backroom deals" contributed to his decision.
"Participation on this board has always been challenging, and for the better part of my first year the challenge was also rewarding," Townsend said in his letter of resignation. "This year the environment has been increasingly toxic. We moved from a board equally balanced on experience to a very inexperienced board. This has not helped."
Townsend went on to call the board "divided" and questioned whether or not the board is working together as a board of seven or a smaller number.
"Accountability starts at the board," his letter said. "Many ran on the platform of accountability, yet still have not accounted for their inexperience or mistakes."
Townsend was at the center of an uncomfortable moment at the board's last meeting on June 2, where he was accused of writing disparaging e-mails about the board and a board member's family.
He said those e-mails had nothing to do with his resignation but said what happened at that meeting helped to finalize his decision.
According to video from the meeting, Townsend was discussing e-mails between him and the district's attorneys regarding an opinion he was seeking. During that discussion, Board Member Ann Wright expressed concern about a comment Townsend wrote in the e-mail about her family, along with other allegations he made against the board.
"I don't appreciate you mentioning my family in an e-mail to an attorney and disparaging me to an attorney," Wright told Townsend during the meeting. "I found it hurtful. We have a board goal of unity ... and I find it's going to be very very difficult right now to achieve that after reading your e-mails, your accusations in there."
Townsend commented during the meeting that he didn't know which e-mails Wright was referring to.
Townsend declined to discuss the nature of the e-mails with Foster's on Monday, calling them "privileged information."
Wright didn't return a call Monday seeking comment.
Amid growing public concerns about transparency on the board, much of the board's recent discussion have centered around the creation of a budget advisory committee and an audit committee, issues that have divided the board at time.
Townsend briefly acknowledged those two issues in his resignation letter.
"I see focus on two financial pieces, yet for all the focus on money where is the focus on education?" he said. "This board will face many challenges this year, but I sincerely hope that it does not forget its first charge — to ensure the education of our children."
Townsend said he plans on going back to being a regular citizen with "a bad taste in his mouth of public service."
Finding new board members is nothing new to the School Board.
In December, former board chair Kimberly Clark resigned citing a "lack of trust and mutual respect" on the board.
Shirley Thompson, a former board member, resigned a year earlier.
Monday, June 7, 2010
ORCSD Music Survey
Recently I learned that the incredibly dedicated Mast Way music teacher (Pam Felber) was spearheading an effort to gain valuable community input about our District's music program offerings. If you have a child in our District, please take the time to complete the following survey before June 16th:
Music is an important part of a child's well-rounded education. However, I am concerned that Oyster River experiences a significant drop-off in music participation between the ORMS and ORHS. How can we address this? Please lend your own opinion (and support); we need to ENGAGE our learners throughout their Oyster River academic careers.
We have wonderful music educators willing to guide our students; let's offer, at least, our input. Thank you!
P.S. I would love to see Blog discussions refocus on the real issues...our children's education!
Friday, June 4, 2010
School Board Chair Needs to Apologize
Please look at the video excerpt from the June 2, 2010 meeting below. In it is a reference from an email trail between Mr. Townsend at an attorney stating harmful remarks about multiple board members AND THEIR FAMILIES!!! I do not know what was in the email (submitted an RSA request for it) but in general terms talked about during the meeting, Ms. Wright states she is hurt by these remarks and wishes an apology from Mr. Townsend. Ms. Wright goes on to say "I do not appreciate you mentioning my family to an attorney...and disparaging me to an attorney."
This sentiment was backed up by Ms. O'Quinn, Ms. Butts, and Ms. Portalupi.
In the video, Mr. Townsend denies and does not recall these remarks even though a copy of this email was handed to all board members for this meeting and during the comments from Ms. Wright, he has this email trail in his hands. At one point, Mr. Townsend flat out denies stating a family members' name to the attorney. Both Ms. Wright and Ms. O'Quinn reply that this did occur.
When Ms. Rief questions the comments about Mr. Townsend in his defense, Ms. Wright asks her if she read the emails. Ms. Rief replied she did not!
Needless to say, the board chair offered no apology.
This sentiment was backed up by Ms. O'Quinn, Ms. Butts, and Ms. Portalupi.
In the video, Mr. Townsend denies and does not recall these remarks even though a copy of this email was handed to all board members for this meeting and during the comments from Ms. Wright, he has this email trail in his hands. At one point, Mr. Townsend flat out denies stating a family members' name to the attorney. Both Ms. Wright and Ms. O'Quinn reply that this did occur.
When Ms. Rief questions the comments about Mr. Townsend in his defense, Ms. Wright asks her if she read the emails. Ms. Rief replied she did not!
Needless to say, the board chair offered no apology.
ORCSD School Board Chair Needs to Apologize from Oyster River Community on Vimeo.
Budget Advisory Committee Overview
Here is a post from board member Krista Butts on her research on the budget advisory committee.
Here is the proposal that I presented to board members and will be discussed at the next meeting. I handed out copies to those in the room on Wednesday.
Budget Advisory Committee
The purpose of this advisory committee is advise the board in examining the budget line by line to look for cost savings measures that do not necessarily affect staffing. This committee will align with the district initiatives in that in order to meet 1.) raising proficiency levels of individual learners, and 2.) continuing to refine curriculum and instructional practices the appropriate staffing levels are needed. However, the community is largely requesting a 0% budget increase. While staffing is the largest part of our budget, we would need to examine which contracts are due for rebidding and complete that bidding process, and examine other innovative cost savings measures in other areas that would require time and resources that would potentially keep our administration from serving their other needs in the district. This is why a budget advisory committee is beneficial because it would allow us to gain the information necessary, without affecting other aspects of the district’s daily business.
This proposed committee would be made up of school board member(s) and community experts in budgeting and finance. Therefore, there would be no cost in forming the committee. There may be some insignificant cost in any accounts that may need to be re-bid, however, the district would incur this cost whether or not the committee did the work or the administration did the work. The potential savings that these would produce would far outweigh any costs incurred.
The benefit to the district is a budget that allows them to meet their district initiatives and potentially keep full staffing levels while still allowing for the budget reduction that its stockholders are deeming necessary.
The proposed composition of the committee would be 5-7 members, made up of at least one school board member. The remaining members could be designated as such. Three community members, would be chosen by the school board, preferably one from Lee, Madbury, and Durham respectively. Three community members each nominated by the town council of Durham, and the boards of selectman from Lee and Madbury. This would allow representation from each of the three towns and their governing bodies if they choose. All members would be required to have a background or level of expertise in budgeting and/or finance to advise the board accordingly. If a recommended committee position went unfilled by a town, it could be filled with any member that the school board sees fit or remain unfilled.
Here is the proposal that I presented to board members and will be discussed at the next meeting. I handed out copies to those in the room on Wednesday.
Budget Advisory Committee
The purpose of this advisory committee is advise the board in examining the budget line by line to look for cost savings measures that do not necessarily affect staffing. This committee will align with the district initiatives in that in order to meet 1.) raising proficiency levels of individual learners, and 2.) continuing to refine curriculum and instructional practices the appropriate staffing levels are needed. However, the community is largely requesting a 0% budget increase. While staffing is the largest part of our budget, we would need to examine which contracts are due for rebidding and complete that bidding process, and examine other innovative cost savings measures in other areas that would require time and resources that would potentially keep our administration from serving their other needs in the district. This is why a budget advisory committee is beneficial because it would allow us to gain the information necessary, without affecting other aspects of the district’s daily business.
This proposed committee would be made up of school board member(s) and community experts in budgeting and finance. Therefore, there would be no cost in forming the committee. There may be some insignificant cost in any accounts that may need to be re-bid, however, the district would incur this cost whether or not the committee did the work or the administration did the work. The potential savings that these would produce would far outweigh any costs incurred.
The benefit to the district is a budget that allows them to meet their district initiatives and potentially keep full staffing levels while still allowing for the budget reduction that its stockholders are deeming necessary.
The proposed composition of the committee would be 5-7 members, made up of at least one school board member. The remaining members could be designated as such. Three community members, would be chosen by the school board, preferably one from Lee, Madbury, and Durham respectively. Three community members each nominated by the town council of Durham, and the boards of selectman from Lee and Madbury. This would allow representation from each of the three towns and their governing bodies if they choose. All members would be required to have a background or level of expertise in budgeting and/or finance to advise the board accordingly. If a recommended committee position went unfilled by a town, it could be filled with any member that the school board sees fit or remain unfilled.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Foster's Article on Budget Committee
DURHAM — After taking flak for "unchecked" and "excessive" budget increases in recent years, members of the Oyster River School Board on Wednesday said they will consider establishing a budget committee.
No such body currently exists. Surrounding communities like Dover, Somersworth, and Rochester have some form of school budget committee, which is typically charged with dissecting spending items and making recommendations.
Having one in place will ensure fiscal responsibility and make the budget process more transparent, several members of the Oyster River community told the School Board during a regular meeting Wednesday night.
"The public has demanded this for years," said Durham resident Seth Fiermonti, whose recent attempt to cut $15,000 from the school district's $38.8 million operating budget was voted down at a deliberative session.
He said having a budget committee will allow the School Board to focus on more pressing matters like curriculum improvement.
Others said they want the committee in place to protect against tax hikes.
"There are (budget) increases year after year," said Durham resident Roger Speidel. "It's unchecked, unsustainable, and unbelievable."
He said he wants the next budget to have a zero increase.
Board member Jennifer Rief said the current budget increased only 1.67 percent over last year — the third straight year an increase was held under 3 percent.
"It's extremely phenomenal," she said. "There's been a trend to being more fiscally responsible."
Fellow board member Krista Butts, who was elected in March after promising to make the budget process more transparent, said she drafted a budget committee proposal that will be discussed at the board's next meeting June 16.
The development came after Durham town administrators and members of the Town Council met with Superintendent Howard Colter in March to discuss residents' concerns about school spending.
No such body currently exists. Surrounding communities like Dover, Somersworth, and Rochester have some form of school budget committee, which is typically charged with dissecting spending items and making recommendations.
Having one in place will ensure fiscal responsibility and make the budget process more transparent, several members of the Oyster River community told the School Board during a regular meeting Wednesday night.
"The public has demanded this for years," said Durham resident Seth Fiermonti, whose recent attempt to cut $15,000 from the school district's $38.8 million operating budget was voted down at a deliberative session.
He said having a budget committee will allow the School Board to focus on more pressing matters like curriculum improvement.
Others said they want the committee in place to protect against tax hikes.
"There are (budget) increases year after year," said Durham resident Roger Speidel. "It's unchecked, unsustainable, and unbelievable."
He said he wants the next budget to have a zero increase.
Board member Jennifer Rief said the current budget increased only 1.67 percent over last year — the third straight year an increase was held under 3 percent.
"It's extremely phenomenal," she said. "There's been a trend to being more fiscally responsible."
Fellow board member Krista Butts, who was elected in March after promising to make the budget process more transparent, said she drafted a budget committee proposal that will be discussed at the board's next meeting June 16.
The development came after Durham town administrators and members of the Town Council met with Superintendent Howard Colter in March to discuss residents' concerns about school spending.
Wednesday, June 2, 2010
Watch the School Board Meeting Tonight 6/2/10
Stay engaged! Watch the meeting and post your feedback, comments, observations, highlights, great moments and not so great moments.
CALL TO ACTION
CALL TO ACTION!
Want to help make the future brighter for the children in this school district? You can, by asking our school Board and administration to stop wasteful spending and initiate more oversight of spending. These controls will ensure that funds are directed toward programs that add value to the education of our kids.
Currently, our district continues to waste money and resources:
* An independent CPA firm has found deficiencies and material weaknesses in our accounting for at least 6 years in a row.
* ORCSD pays extra EVERY year because our poor internal controls are considered "high risk".
* The District continues to ignore policies regarding proper bidding of services.
We are at the cusp of change. Indeed, some members of the Board refuse to get on board and support protocols to curb this reckless behavior. But, more members of the Board are willing to embrace change and stand up to intimidation.
Your help is needed!
It is time to demand fiscal responsibility from our school district. Please show your support for a budget committee and audit committee.
What can you do:
1. Please send a letter to the Board telling them that you support fiscal transparency and responsibility and nothing less will be tolerated (e-mail admin assistant, Wendy DiFruscio at: wdifruscio@orcsd.org)
2. Speak out at the meeting tomorrow night--OR high school at 7:00 p.m. and voice your support and intolerance for the attempts of the Chair and other members of the Board to stonewall these initiatives.
3. Get involved in the conversation at: www.oysterrivercommunity.blogspot.com
4. Stay informed by watching school board meetings on Channel 22 (every other Wed at 7:00).
3. Tell a friend and ask them to get involved and demand more from our Board and administration.
With your help we can solve these problems and start talking about moving this district into the 21st Century, where it rightfully belongs.
Thanks,
Jenna
----- Forwarded Message ---- From: Jenna Roberts To: orcsd-Wendy DiFruscio
Cc: Durham Todd Selig
Sent: Tue, June 1, 2010 11:51:56 PM Subject: please forward
Cc: Durham Todd Selig
Sent: Tue, June 1, 2010 11:51:56 PM Subject: please forward
June 1, 2010
Members of the Oyster River Cooperative School District School Board:
In these tough economic times, any Board member who opposes strategies for quality assurance, risk management, waste reduction and sensible cost controls is irresponsible and negligent of their fiduciary responsibility to the community and our children’s future.
It is time for Oyster River to get on board with best practices. It is time for the Board to move forward and represent the best interest of the public for whom they work. It is time for an audit committee and a budget committee.
Below you will find a quick peek at the kind of oversight that institutions are utilizing to control costs and provide fiscal oversight. You will find efforts for increased transparency and fiscal responsibility at colleges, public school cooperatives and local town governments.
Sincerely,
Jenna Roberts
Durham
cc: Durham Town Council, Lee Selectmen, Madbury Selectmen
In order below--Dartmouth College budget committee, Dresden Ad-Hoc Cost Reduction Committee, Dresden Budget Committee, Newmarket Municipal Audit Committee.
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