Editor’s note: Our policy is to not run political letters to the editor that reference an election the following week unless they are a direct rebuttal to a previously published letter. The following two letters meet that criteria.
In his Letter to the Editor last week titled, “When is enough, enough?” Matt Waterfield makes an allegation that I believe needs to be addressed on behalf of the hundreds of Greene County School (GCSS) staff and volunteers that have worked so hard to achieve a remarkable turnaround in all 3 schools. Mr. Waterfield implies that the “GC BOE has intentionally doctored grades or manipulated numbers and scores to affect their (GCSS) state standing.” This is based on numerous calls he has received from nameless people.
First, I contacted the superintendent and the current BOE chairman, who told me the only accusation received along these lines goes back 10 years and was made by an employee who has long ago left the GCSS.
A thorough investigation found no substantiation of the charge. I was chairman during six years of this period and also did not receive any such allegation.
Second, Mr. Waterfield needs to understand the security that surrounds testing that is the basis for state standing. The process is run by independent proctors who personally conduct the testing and collect and submit the results to the state (which collects and tabulates the results). Neither GCSS staff, volunteers, nor BOE members are involved in any way.
Third, Mr. Waterfield and his “callers” need to understand the seriousness of their accusations. In some cases, for example state testing, there are criminal implications for “doctoring” results. The BOE I was on and the present one understand the importance of having accurate data to guide effective action. Mr.
Waterfield and his unnamed informants should feel the same way and come forth so the practice, if it exists, can be stopped immediately. I am sure decisive action would be taken.
Shame on anyone that holds this information (IF it exists) back! I would ask the same question “When is enough, enough” to Mr. Waterfield—when will you and your other LOA slate of spokespeople stop coming up with unfounded allegations?
Mike Lynch, former chairman Greene County BOE