To the Edtior:
The town of Great Barrington has a choice ahead of it in the race for School Committee. I have served a total of 16 years on the BHRSD board and I feel qualified to give readers a glimpse into the life of a School Committee member. It is not simply the act of showing up for school committee meetings. It is a job that requires much time and dedication.
Throughout the budget season that begins in January and ends at the town meeting in May, those twice a month meetings become weekly and increasingly long, with multiple presentations and materials to read and absorb. Add into that mix the policy, building and grounds, technology, job description, and superintendent evaluation or negotiation meetings. Add on the subcommittee that goes into the Central Office to read through and sign the Warrants. People might see the SC members signing many documents at meetings. They are only doing so because they know that the subcommittee has looked through every check and supporting document before they add their signature.
Now add into the mix the meetings and conferences where educational issues are discussed. Oh, and don’t forget any legal issues that the district may be involved in that you need to be kept abreast of, because no one likes to be surprised. Now, add in your daytime job and family commitments and you begin to understand the life of a School Committee member.
It takes a dedicated and passionate individual to maintain and juggle all of it and do it well. Taking it even further, add on the role of chairman, which Stephen Bannon has held for many years. This is the person whom the Superintendent consults with on many sensitive topics.
Steve does it all very well and thrives in this role. He has the background, knowledge and an impartial and non-judgmental way of dealing with difficult issues and people that the School Committee needs. His understanding of the town enhances his work with the district and adds a layer that few others can understand.
I support Stephen Bannon for School Committee and I encourage people to investigate all he has done for the district and the town of Great Barrington before the November election. He provides the necessary history and continuity that this difficult role requires. Throughout his tenure in Rotary, as a past Golden Knights coach, Select Board and School Committee member, he has always given his all to the town. Steve is a true civic leader.
Deborah Kain
Great Barrington
