During a recent Norfolk Public Schools board meeting, community members voiced concerns and requests regarding school governance and funding. Liz Albert, a long-time advocate for improved funding, addressed the board, emphasizing the need for transparency in the appointment process for a potential replacement for board member Mister Clanton, who is running for a city council seat. Albert expressed apprehension about what she described as \"backroom political shenanigans\" among some board members, particularly regarding Mister Jordan's rumored candidacy for Clanton's position. She urged the board to prioritize a transparent public input process for candidate qualifications to avoid perpetuating dysfunction within the school division.
Albert also highlighted the risk of losing the current superintendent, Sharon Birdsong, due to ongoing conflicts within the board. She warned that if Birdsong were to leave, it would be a significant loss for Norfolk Public Schools, suggesting that her leadership would be better appreciated in hindsight.
Following Albert, Andrea Schindler, a teacher and parent within the district, advocated for the purchase of software aimed at enhancing family and school partnerships. She noted the positive impact of communication initiatives, such as daily robo calls to families, which she believes foster a stronger connection between the school and the community.
The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the Norfolk Public Schools board, particularly in terms of governance and community engagement, as stakeholders call for a more collaborative and transparent approach to decision-making.