Public demands resignation of Connie Baker over school board ethics violation

In a charged atmosphere at the Washington Township Public Schools Board of Education meeting on April 14, 2025, community members voiced their outrage over alleged misconduct by board member Connie Baker. The meeting, marked by emotional testimonies and pointed accusations, centered around Baker's controversial actions regarding personnel decisions within the district.

An impassioned speaker, representing concerned citizens, accused Baker of overstepping her authority by submitting a detailed organizational chart to interim superintendent Jack McGee. This chart reportedly included specific recommendations for the termination, demotion, or promotion of district employees, all done without board consultation. The speaker characterized Baker's actions as a "clear abuse of power" and a "violation of court ethics," arguing that such decisions should be made transparently and through proper channels.

The fallout from Baker's actions was immediate and severe. The interim superintendent, who was brought in to stabilize the district, resigned the day after the chart was submitted, a move the speaker linked directly to Baker's conduct. This resignation has raised significant concerns about the integrity of the board and the trust of the community in its leadership.

Calls for Baker's resignation echoed throughout the meeting, with community members demanding accountability. The speaker urged the board to either accept Baker's resignation or take a formal vote of no confidence, warning that inaction would imply complicity in unethical behavior. The atmosphere was thick with tension as board members grappled with the implications of these accusations.

In addition to the controversy surrounding Baker, the meeting also addressed financial matters, including a proposed resolution for additional expenditures and tax incentives. Questions were raised about the district's budget, with community members seeking clarity on how funds would be allocated, particularly in light of the district's reported $10 million shortfall in adequate funding.

As the meeting progressed, the discussion shifted to the broader implications of the board's decisions on staff morale and community trust. The Washington Township Education Association expressed solidarity with teachers and staff, emphasizing the need for unity and support amidst the turmoil.

The meeting concluded with a sense of urgency and unresolved tension, leaving many in attendance wondering how the board would navigate the challenges ahead. The community's demand for ethical governance and transparency remains at the forefront, as the fallout from this meeting continues to unfold.