Board needs ‘no excuses’ culture

Rich Dec, of Robbinsville
   The Messenger Press’s “School board OKs budget with 5-cent hike” contains many examples of why Robbinsville’s educational leaders are shortchanging our students, our teachers, and our community.
   In response to the “out-of-control” and “stretched to the hilt” space issues which, according to the article, started around 2003:
   • ”Some planners tried to focus on the facilities’ needs, but due to a lack of public support, it never moved forward.” — board member Carol Boyne.
   • ”We know we have space issues, but we haven’t had support from the community.” — board member Matthew O’Grady
   Dr. Szabo cited the need for a voter referendum to approve an expenditure for a new intermediate school. Despite the issues, there hasn’t been a referendum. Instead, I have heard many excuses over the past five-plus years as to why these “out-of-control” issues continue to be excused and rationalized.
   I ask Steve Mayer and the school board to aggressively move forward to put the referendum to the community. I am also asking Steve and the BOE to change their team culture to one of “No Excuses.” I challenge them to be forward-thinking and willing to let the community decide on important issues versus making excuses and letting these excuses impede true community decision making.
   I support the budget and welcome Steve Mayer as our new superintendent.