In recent weeks, I have been the focus of criticism from the public and by the media regarding certain actions taken by the full membership of the Starkville School District Board of Trustees regarding leadership changes for our school system.
This criticism is somewhat misplaced. Mine is only one of five votes on the board. While individual members may propose actions, all five members must vote to adopt or reject each one. In fact, as the current board president, I cannot make motions since policies and procedures set forth under state law prohibit me from doing so. All other board members can make motions at will on the issues at hand.
However, in the interest of promoting harmony among my fellow school board members and within the community, I am stepping aside as president of the SSD Board of Trustees effective immediately. I will continue to be an active member of the board until the completion of my term.
My focus always has been and will continue to be on the thousands of students who are enrolled in the Starkville School District. They deserve the absolute best we can give them. That is possible only when we work together toward common goals. It is time for us to pull together and move forward.
We must do so according to the policies and procedures of the Starkville School District while following the requirements of state law. That”s what our school board members are charged with doing, and that”s what I will continue to do until I complete my term of service.
The Dispatch Editorial Board is made up of publisher Peter Imes, columnist Slim Smith, managing editor Zack Plair and senior newsroom staff.
You can help your community
Quality, in-depth journalism is essential to a healthy community. The Dispatch brings you the most complete reporting and insightful commentary in the Golden Triangle, but we need your help to continue our efforts. In the past week, our reporters have posted 36 articles to cdispatch.com. Please consider subscribing to our website for only $2.30 per week to help support local journalism and our community.