Schenectady school board votes to issue letter of criticism to member Jamaica Miles after disciplinary disputes

The Schenectady City School District Board of Education voted Nov. 5 to issue a formal letter of criticism to board member Jamaica Miles over her recent public comments regarding student disciplinary actions at a district high school.

Board President Bernice opened the item by saying the board had discussed the matter in executive session and that "a letter of criticism is within the authority of the board of education." The resolution was presented in open session and the board took a roll-call vote after members discussed legal advice and concerns about transparency.

The resolution, as read by the president, said the board holds members to "the highest standards of ethics, professionalism, and accountability" and that the letter would document conduct the board found concerning. The board noted Miles would abstain from deliberation and voting because the action directly pertained to her.

Miles told colleagues she had not used her position for…