COLLINS: What is wrong with our School Board?

Well, in answer to my opening statement, they have done nothing wrong. In fact, they seem to have done pretty much everything right. They have formed a cohesive team that provides a positive image to the public.

If there is discussion, any problems seem to be resolved behind closed doors, which is where they should be kept. This team of trustees is very experienced, led by one of my two favourite politicians.

The two newcomers have lots to offer and will be heard from more and more as time goes on. The Administration, led by Nixon, is running on an even keel, and Nixon’s regular reports to parents leave a positive impression that they are engaged with parents and students, as well as teachers.

Is everything perfect? Not likely, but I personally have a lot more confidence in them than I do in City Hall.

I have written previously regarding the fractured atmosphere. This week, Council held a special meeting. The result- pausing the work of Committees and then voting to establish a committee to study the committees.

While the School Board is discussing its Strategic Plan and taking positive steps to move its agenda forward, Council is busy trying to get its feet on the ground and get some traction.

The move this week was simply part of the Councillors’ plan to fight back against what they have suggested was an arbitrary decision by the Mayor to change membership on some committees and remove some Councillors as Committee Chairs.

In my opinion, it was an extremely short-sighted move by the Mayor and only served to fuel the discontent between Mayor and Council.

This will come to a head eventually, but there are probably a few more moves to be played by both sides before we get any kind of cohesion at all. In the meantime, let’s pay closer attention to the School Board to see how things could and should be done.

I’m Doug Collins and that’s One Man’s Opinion.

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Editor’s Note: This opinion piece reflects the views of its author, and does not necessarily represent the views of CFJC Today or Pattison Media.

by Doug Collins

COLLINS: What is wrong with our School Board?

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