The Bedford Public Schools School Committee on Oct. 28 opened its meeting with a statement from Chair Sarah McGinley noting the committee, with the superintendents permission, had informed the community of an ongoing Title IX investigation and asking commenters not to discuss it publicly to protect due process.

"We are not soliciting public comment on the ongoing investigation," McGinley said, and reminded attendees that the committee was working with legal counsel and would follow applicable laws and procedures.

The public comment period that followed drew more than a dozen speakers. Assistant Superintendent of Student Services Maria, speaking in her capacity as a district administrator, said the community should preserve confidentiality and civility during the process: "When disagreement turns to rumor, division, or public campaigns, it not only harms individuals, it disrupts the essential work of educating students," she said.

Many speakers voiced support for the superintendent. Wendy Tanahashi Works, a teacher at John Glenn Middle School, said she had "proudly served in the Bedford Public Schools for the past 18 years" and urged the committee to consider his record of engagement and professional conduct when weighing contract renewal. Multiple other staff and community members read or referenced a petition signed by 257 residents supporting the superintendent and cited his involvement with students, contract negotiations and community outreach.

Several students and other speakers urged caution before extending or renewing the superintendents contract. Former student representative Vivian Liu told the committee she was "deeply worried about the consequences" a renewal would have, describing personal experiences she said demonstrated disregard for student voice. A different public speaker asked, "Can the superintendent effectively work with his subordinates?" and called for the full airing of complaints and protections for staff and students who come forward.

Other public commenters raised procedural and legal questions about the investigation itself, including whether all identified witnesses had been interviewed and whether outside counsel were sufficiently independent. Parents asked what protections exist for those who report retaliation and how non-Title IX workplace complaints would be handled.

The School Committee did not take any personnel action at the meeting. The record shows a recent one-year extension was referenced by speakers, but committee members said the Title IX process, and legal counsel involved, constrain what can be discussed publicly. The committee reiterated that any findings would be considered with respect to future votes or actions.

The meeting transcript shows the public comment period included a mix of current and former students, teachers, and community members. Speakers repeatedly framed their remarks as either supporting continuity in leadership while investigations proceed or insisting the committee ensure all complaints are fully and fairly investigated before making long-term personnel decisions.

The committee moved on after closing public comment without additional public responses to the investigation and with a reminder of the districts policies and legal limits on public discussion.