Something is wrong in our schools. As a long-standing member of the community, a teacher at Athol High School and a leader in the Athol Teachers’ Association, I was appalled to learn that the principal at ACES and the vice principal have both given their notice of resignation.
I can’t imagine what event or events might have precipitated this. I have also learned that the superintendent of schools intends to conduct the exit interviews. I am asking the School Committee and the public to voice their concerns and ensure that anyone leaving the district conduct their exit interviews with either a School Committee member or with an objective third party.
I have known the current principal at ACES for many years, both as a colleague teaching in the same district, as well as when I worked with him representing the Athol Teachers’ Association and he as a school administrator. I have the utmost respect for Mike Leander. He has established himself as a dedicated educator, a favorite among students, and a trusted colleague of the Athol teachers.
I remember when Mr. Leander was hired to be the principal of ACES, he was excited and looked forward to remaining in the district for many years to come. The news that he has now resigned, without even having another job waiting in the wings, has alarmed me, and I hope it alarms everyone in the community.
I have heard rumors and rumblings from several teachers within the district that morale has deteriorated and that several are unhappy in the positions that they have held for several years. I incorrectly assumed that it may be due to a changing administration, and with time, problems would work themselves out. Clearly, I was wrong. It seems tensions are escalating and the possibility of compromise is diminishing.
Our children deserve the best education we can provide, as well as the support and encouragement of their teachers. When trusted educators and administration are pushed to the point of resignation, it is time for the community to take action. We must get the real reasons for these resignations and educator frustration. We owe it to our children.
The only way to truly understand what is going on in the district is to have exit interviews conducted by a third party to get an unbiased and truthful explanation. Our children deserve teachers and administrators who are encouraged and supported to teach our children. I seriously question whether that is being done. The community must demand exit interviews are conducted by objective people to truly find out what is at the root of this problem. We must put pressure on our elected leaders in the school community to ensure that all steps are being taken to promote a healthy environment in which our children can learn effectively.
Keith Williams
Athol