Parents press Branford schools over Murphy School incident; superintendent vows to 'do better'

BRANFORD, Conn. — Several parents told the Branford Board of Education on April 22 that the district’s handling of a recent incident at Murphy School left families shaken and needing better communication.

During the public comment period, James Barone, Mike Freda, Jonathan Avitable, Jamilet Perez and Jamie Judd described how the event affected their children and asked the board for clearer, more timely updates, stronger screening and more support for neurodivergent students. Freda said, “at the end of the day it's about communication, accountability and doing better,” and several parents said an apology alone would not be enough.

Superintendent Christopher Tranberg offered a brief response to the speakers, saying he "gets it and hears the parents," and that he takes the matter "very seriously." He told the room that safety is "number one," that the district is "investing a ton of resources," and that he "appreciates your words, they are not taken lightly and thank you." He also called the parents’ willingness to speak up "courageous."

Board Chair Peter Berdon acknowledged the parents’ concerns and said the incident had prompted substantial internal reflection. Berdon, who cited a similar personal family experience, said the board would "try to do better," including how substitute teachers are managed and how small cues are noticed. He noted the board has to balance legal advice involving police and the Department of Children and Families when pursuing formal remedies.

The public comments centered on three recurring requests: faster, more direct communication with families after incidents; clearer disclosure about who is permitted in schools and how background checks are handled; and more tailored approaches to children with special needs who may not communicate incidents easily. Jamie Judd urged the board to consider how to reach neurodivergent students who may not be able to describe what happened.

The board did not take formal action on the incident during the meeting but moved into an executive session later to receive counsel recommendations regarding transportation contract amendments; the executive session concluded with no votes or public actions reported. Board members and district leaders said they would continue internal review and follow-up with families as appropriate.

The board is scheduled to meet next on May 27, 2026, when members may provide further updates or formal next steps.