BOE getting down to work

Last night's BOE meeting, in combination with the prior one, covered a broad range of business. Major highlights were approving the school calendar for next year, the first reading of new or revised policies in the 9000 series, and presentations on the proposed budget. Any one of those areas could have easily devolved into argument and rancor. It's a credit to the board that they did not. There were definitely areas of disagreement and spirited discussions but, ultimately, there was bipartisan support in approving items up for vote.

The calendar, for the first time, includes a listing of some dates of importance to the various cultures and faiths that make up of student body. The main calendar page remains clear and concise with only school days listed. It is on the back that holidays and observances are listed. There will also be a QR code (thanks Mr. Gousse) linking to a page on the district website with more comprehensive information. What a simple yet profound way to say to our families that they are seen and valued. To those that would say why bother or it isn't important I ask you this; how does this additional information inconvenience or cost you? Does it diminish your ability to acknowledge or celebrate dates of importance to you? I consider this a step in the right direction in the effort to ready our children for life in a world that is shared among many cultures, faiths, and traditions.

The 9000 series are the policies that govern the role, responsibilities and priorities that apply to board members. It also sets the order and behavioral expectations for meetings and the process for setting agendas. It was obvious that much thought and work, by members of both parties, went into this. When I was reading the agenda packet prior to the meeting, the most striking thing was the change eliminating the board members' free form comment item. It seemed wrong at first but, as I read and considered the whole of the series changes, it became clear that the goal was to focus all members on board business and their roles as representatives of the whole town to advocate for our schools. To have members of both parties reiterate that this was a bipartisan effort and it did not seek to still debate, just to streamline things was beneficial. Happily, public comments remain a regular item on the agenda. I just wish more of the public would come to comment. It is hard for parents to get to meetings in the evening. Please know that public comments are early in the meeting, especially if no board guests are scheduled. You don't have to stay for the whole meeting. Just show up around 7, put your name on the sign-up sheet near the secretary and, when called upon, go to the mic and say your piece.

The budget presentation is ongoing, as is the discussion on the financial plans for the upcoming school year. If you can't make the meetings, they can be viewed at any time on the Enfield you tube site. All budget information, as well as links to meeting agendas, packets and minutes can also be found on the BOE page at www.enfieldschools.org .