Petition Calls for Transparency of Sag Harbor School Board

In light of two recent resignations from the Sag Harbor School Board that pointed to acrimony among board members and a lack of transparency in board business, an online petition has been started that calls for reform.

One signatory, named Sharon Bakes, wrote "I am concerned about the recent resignations and suggestions that the Board is not working in the best interests of our schools. We want accountability!"

Elena Loreto commented, "This public forum must be held before the elections in May to avoid the public backlash that has been festering. Everything the BOE does is suspect. The community deserves answers."

Stacy Pennebaker wrote, "How could one be against this petition? The objective makes good business sense and, if, implemented, will serve as an excellent model for the students to follow."

The petition reads, in whole:

We petition the Sag Harbor Board of Education to:

1. Follow professional board practices outlined by the National School Board Association manual, "The Key Work of School Boards” and NY State law.

2. Publicly examine the concerns brought up by the recent resignations and implement necessary reforms to insure a respectful and effective approach to governing.



3. Commit to open communication, transparent governance and continuing education for its members to better serve the public and our children.

The first signature came April 3 and the petition has gathered 93 signatures as of Friday afternoon, with a goal of 300.

The person who started the petition did not immediately reply to a message sent through the petition website Thursday.

RELATED

• Letter: Board's 'Internal Strife' Led to Resignation
• Sag Harbor Super and School Board Member Resign
• Sag Harbor Express Editorial: Shining a Light