Date: 5/13/2021
In this election season one of the issues, we are facing is that of the school litigation. Unfortunately, it is a far more complicated matter than settle or not settle as expressed in some of the recent overheated, simplified rhetoric by some involved in the Hampden selectman's race. There are complicating factors to reaching a settlement the most prominent being the Hampden-Wilbraham Regional School District (HWRSD) needs to develop a strategic plan for the district.
I think everyone can agree that it is essential for the HWRSD to be able to engage in a meaningful and full-bodied strategic plan But, the HWRSD contends that constraints on the district in doing this are significant in light of the pending litigation.
The HWRSD’s position is that the first step in any strategic plan is a SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) however, the HWRSD is reluctant to engage in such an analysis because in their view it may expose weaknesses in a public forum that could prove to be a significant opportunity for the town of Hampden to obtain possible points of argument to be used during litigation. Perhaps Hampden's case has more merit than the HWRSD is willing to admit.
Consider the following: The HWRSD is reluctant to expose weaknesses in a public forum because it could prove to be a significant opportunity for the town of Hampden to obtain possible points of argument to be used during litigation." The HWRSD believes it is more important to protect their litigation position than develop a long-term strategic plan to ensure quality education for all Wilbraham and Hampden students. Do not the parents of today’s and future school children have the right to know the district’s weaknesses so we all could jointly work to correct them for the benefit of our children?
As a person who spent 12 years on a school committee, I find it very disconcerting that a school committee would prioritize winning a court case above the future education of our children. I for one do not understand why a school committee would not act in the best interest of the students. Is winning a court case really more important than providing a winning education plan for our children?
In my view strategic planning should get under way, let the chips fall where they may. Once the process begins, we may find out there is common ground and solutions that will benefit both Wilbraham and Hampden and a mutually agreeable settlement can be reached.
Donald L. Davenport
Hampden
