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School committee postpones decision on memorial bench dedication to Sept. 9
Summary
The committee postponed consideration of a donated bench intended to honor a longtime Lincoln School volunteer, citing questions about policy, property authority and long‑term precedent.
The Revere School Committee on Aug. 19 agreed to postpone action on a proposed bench dedication to a longtime Lincoln School volunteer until its Sept. 9 meeting.
Why it matters: Committee members and the superintendent raised questions about precedent, the number of memorials on school grounds over time, district policy on memorials and whether the committee or the city controls school grounds and naming decisions.
The PTA had offered to donate the bench at no cost to the district to honor the volunteer's long service at Lincoln School. Superintendent Dr. Kelly noted concerns past committees considered when allowing memorials on school property, including the potential proliferation of memorials and the message sent to students. Committee members asked about ownership and authority for grounds; one member suggested consulting the city solicitor to confirm whether the committee could authorize a bench on school grounds. A speaker described the volunteer as a familiar and warmly remembered presence in the community and urged a thoughtful memorial.
A motion to postpone consideration to the Sept. 9 regular meeting passed by roll call. The committee did not make a final decision on placement, wording or a permanency standard; members suggested alternatives such as scholarships or awards as less permanent ways to honor individuals.
