During a recent government meeting, board members engaged in a robust discussion regarding the evaluation of the new superintendent, Mr. Russo, particularly focusing on the metrics used to assess his performance in building trust within the community. Concerns were raised about the effectiveness of merely holding a series of sessions as a measure of trust, with one board member emphasizing that such actions may not resonate with the community's expectations.

The dialogue highlighted the importance of establishing meaningful connections with both the 20% of parents who have withdrawn their children from the district and the 80% who remain. Board members expressed the need for a more nuanced approach to measuring trust, suggesting that the superintendent's ability to foster relationships should be a key component of his evaluation.

A proposal was made to include a specific goal in Mr. Russo's 90-day plan, aimed at developing conditions to build trust among students, staff, and community members. This would involve regular meetings and communication, reinforcing the idea that trust-building efforts should be tangible and ongoing.

Additionally, the board discussed the importance of aligning the superintendent's objectives with the district's strategic plan and ensuring that safety and security measures are also prioritized. The conversation underscored the board's commitment to providing clear direction and support to the superintendent as he navigates his initial months in office.