My first meeting with Superintendent Miller was when she presented the school budget to our selectboard. It was the first time that I was presented with a first draft budget that I could support. Ms. Miller seems to genuinely understand that member towns of the district do not have unlimited resources. However, she understands that her first obligation is to provide the best possible education to the students of the Pioneer Valley Regional School District. We are indeed fortunate to have a superintendent who understands the whole picture.
I attended the meeting of the PVRSD School Committee May 26, and came away greatly saddened.
The committee allowed one half-hour for voicing of public concerns prior to taking up the main agenda.
The majority of the audience consisted of teachers, parents and students. I could not believe the vehemence with which they insulted, accused and attacked Superintendent Ruth Miller. The cause of their anger seemed to be the resignation of Vice Principal Duprey, an incident that they attributed to Superintendent Miller. They wanted “the truth” as to why he resigned.
These teachers and parents are the role models for our future leaders. What I observed being taught was an absolute disrespect for authority and lack of any semblance of civility. One particularly obnoxious student joined in with allegations and insults, pointing her finger at the superintendent while her mother sat behind her and did nothing to restrain her.
After the half-hour had passed, the whole group left. If they had been truly interested in their school and stayed for the rest of the meeting, they would have found out “the truth.” Superintendent Miller stated that by law she is forbidden to discuss personnel matters; thus she was unable to reveal any of her conversations with Mr. Duprey.
PVRS is a wonderful school with a proud record of success. I hope that this unfortunate demonstration and its related rumors and false information do not detract from its excellent reputation.
I do not know why Mr. Duprey resigned, nor do I need to know. That’s his business. Change is harder for some people than for others. Yet a new administration naturally comes with change. The superintendent faces many challenges, as do all superintendents of rural school districts. They need support, and yes, constructive criticism, but not unfounded dissidence.
Dawn Magi
Chair
Warwick Selectboard