To the editor:
I participated actively in the process for choosing our new superintendent. I attended a focus group, candidate meet-and-greets, each interview and the final School Committee meeting where the decision was made. I am disappointed in both the process and the outcome.
I am thankful that Maria Decker and David Manzi had the courage to vote for change in Beverly, but am disappointed in the rest of the School Committee for not voting for change.
Although I am disappointed, I feel it is time to embrace the new school administration and move forward for a better Beverly. I would like to challenge the community to put aside any disappointment and work together toward resolving the lingering resentment that is dividing us. Let's come alongside our new superintendent and help her to be the leader we need.
I would like to challenge Dr. Galinski, as well. You have been chosen to lead our Beverly schools. It has been evident throughout the selection process that you are well-qualified to run our school district. However, the focus group sessions identified Beverly's desire for a leader who is highly visible and seeks community input, and we have not seen this from you in the past. I hope you will meet with the community to fulfill this desire and identify ways to bridge the gulf that is dividing us and help us all have a vision for what Beverly schools can become.
I am looking forward to assisting in any way that I can. Our priority today is to pull together as a community and rise to the challenge of making Beverly the best that it can be.
Susan Whalen
Beverly
