Parents, neighbors and taxpayers filled the cafeteria of Jordan-Elbridge High School on Wednesday night to let the school board know what they thought about the recent legal battles and controversies surrounding the district. Before the public comments starter, the audience was warned that disrespectful comments would not be tolerated and that anyone who violated the school's code of conduct could be removed.
Several people questioned why the Jordan-Elbridge School Board would use taxpayer money to appeal two State Court decisions that went against the board. One decision cited them for violating open meetings law and another ordered them to reinstate fired Treasurer Anthony Scro.
When it came time for the vote, a large crowd silently held up signs simply asking the board to "Vote No" on the appeals.
"Take the ruling, stop playing with taxpayer money, stop taking money out of the classroom and handing it to lawyers," said Timothy Schutt as he handed out signs before the meeting.
Board President Mary Alley said the district's attorney and other lawyers familiar with education law had advised the district to appeal. Alley said several lawyers she spoke with thought State Supreme Court Justice Don Greenwood's ruling against the district was "incorrectly decided."
The board voted to move forward with both the appeals - much to the disappointment of the neighbors who had filled the cafeteria.
"I just want to see our children get the best education possible. You're cutting jobs, you're getting less money in state aid, you're already $1.8 million in the hole but we're going to turn around and spend more money on legal litigations which is just a waste," said parent Nicole Hyde.
One of the lawsuits that will be appealed was filed by suspended high school principal David Zehner. Zehner was banned from attending future meetings for what the board called disruptive behavior at their last meeting. Zehner said Wednesday he was preparing to take legal action so he could attend future meetings.
Previous coverage can be found here
