OXFORD – The Oxford community came out to show support for High School Principal Christine Pierce during Monday night’s Board of Education meeting. The board was expected to decide whether or not to grant tenure to Pierce, but after hearing comments from more than 20 teachers, students and community members, they decided to table the issue until next week.
During the meeting’s public comment period, more than 20 individuals made their way to the podium to speak. Although the individuals were asked not to comment on any specific personnel, they were allowed to refer to a position and offer their support.
Math teacher Kate Constantine was the first to speak. “I have taught math at the high school for 30 years, and I am here to support the high school principal,” she said. “With 12 years experience in the high school, our principal understands the needs of the students and faculty necessary to ensure a successful high school learning experience – probably better than any administrator in the district. It certainly would be a loss to the district to lose that experience and dedication.”
Physical Education teacher Margo Barrows described the principal as someone she trusts. “If this school is going to continue to grow and improve, we need to have trust and support between the administration and the staff,” Barrows said.
Special Education teacher Kathy Hodge spoke of individual actions Pierce has taken that demonstrate her dedication to the community. “Our principal doesn’t just state the vision and mission of the school as empty promises. She does it.” Hodge said, explaining that Pierce has provided a prom dress for a student who couldn’t afford one, accompanies students on class trips, spent hours after school helping ensure that a senior had enough seat time to graduate and show care and respect for the students. “You never hear her list her accomplishments, but the students, staff and teachers know exactly what she has done,” Hodge said.
English teacher Jena O’Connor explained that the principal gained the respect of the teachers because, “She isn’t afraid to make the right decision. Even if it isn’t a popular one.” O’Connor commended the leadership skills the principal has shown over the last three years. “Our faculty is made up of strong, loud, opinionated people. I can say that, because I am one of them. It takes a strong leader to command the respect of these people and to be heard above them. Our principal has done that.”
While many discussed the accomplishments of Pierce, some also discussed what they perceive as failings by other members of the administration. “Since news that our high school principal would not be given tenure, the atmosphere in this building has been horrendous, because everyone is wondering who is going to be next,” said math teacher Ralph Rathbun. “There would be more here tonight, except some are in fear of losing their jobs. Now is the time to speak out. That’s why I’m here today. I expect to be punished for being here, but I can accept that, because it’s the right thing to do.” Rathbun said if the principal is not granted tenure, it would take years to fix the morale in the building. Rathbun said he could sum up the situation with a poem. He then read “In Germany I Did Not Speak Out,” by Pastor Martin Niemoller.
Students, former students and community members also spoke on Pierce’s behalf. Class of 2007 graduate Sean Nichols challenged the board not to let the comments fall on deaf ears. “Throw away your biases and do what is best for the students. You all know what that is,” Nichols said.
“[The high school principal] has the leadership required to be a leader in our school district. I don’t think the same can be said about positions higher in the school right now,” said Senior Bryant LaTourette.
The two newly-elected Board of Education members Peter Heggie and Dawn Golden also took a moment to address the board and the community. Heggie proposed that the issue be tabled until the new board was in office. He also referred to rumors that teachers had been told not to contact board members. “I think this is unacceptable,” Heggie said. “You should be involved in everything we do.” Heggie encouraged the staff and community to call him with any concerns or issues.
After hearing comments from those in attendance, Board President Robin DeBrita addressed the crowd. “At this point, we have tabled two items, one of which will be addressed next week,” she said. When asked for clarification, she explained that the item involves the high school principal and the issues that were discussed by the public.