Some Barrington school committee candidates say public meetings could be more public

Candidates offer opinions on school committee meetings

Posted 10/11/18

Question: What is your opinion of school committee meetings — are they open and accessible enough to the public?

Patrick McCrann — "Technically, yes. As a frequent attendee and …

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Some Barrington school committee candidates say public meetings could be more public

Candidates offer opinions on school committee meetings

Posted

Question: What is your opinion of school committee meetings — are they open and accessible enough to the public?

Patrick McCrann — "Technically, yes. As a frequent attendee and participant, I can honestly say that the manner in which the meetings are conducted make it clear that community engagement is not a priority. Fixing this is a top priority so we can continue to grow and improve as a committee and community."

Erika Sevetson — "The requirements of Open Meeting laws must be balanced with opportunities to increase dialogue with students, staff and the community. In the past, meetings have been long and impenetrable—discouraging people from attending and participating. I’m hopeful the new structure will foster increased community and staff involvement, and a new committee can encourage even more conversation."

Gina Bae — "I am hopeful about the new school committee meeting formats for this year — including more efficient business meetings, holding work/listening sessions that will engage the community, and providing community forums around specific topics. Communicating these changes will be key in engaging all stakeholders to get informed and provide feedback."

John Alessandro — "I believe our new meeting format allows for more clarity and accessibility to the public. Our business meetings deal with school committee required business and the work session, listening sessions and community forums will allow greater dialogue with the public. I feel the committee strives to listen to all during public comment and address issues brought forth in a timely fashion."

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