Community Corner

School Resource Officer Debate Continues, Greta's Run Top Local News

A look at the top stories in Westfield during the past week.

Readers and Board of Education members weighed in on the possible reinstatement of the school resource officer position. The vote is scheduled for Monday but rather than meet at its regular 302 Elm St. location, the Board will convene at Westfield High School's auditorium at 7:30 p.m. 

The following are letters to the editor regarding the position:

'Why the Rush' to Make SRO Decision Now? BOE Members Ask

Ann Ormsby Cary and Mitch Slater say questions need to be answered before vote can take place.

Armed Policeman is Not the Answer, Retired School Teacher Says

"Let us separate the issues: counseling and security. On one hand, a Student Assistance Counselor is what is needed, that is a trained counselor/mentor familiar with teens' concerns and/or problems. On the other hand, security building issues can be resolved with command posts monitors, apps, and electronic gadgets," writes  Viviane Levy.

BOE Has Failed to Follow Procedure Regarding SRO Position, Reader Says

"Should an incident arise that even remotely indicates negligence on the part of the Board or on the part of the SRO the liability exposure will be staggering," says Michael Celock.

Resident Calls Superintendent's Synopsis Purposely Misleading

"The summary of the Board of Education meeting posted on the Board website which was written by Superintendant Dr. Dolan is very upsetting.  It’s one thing for her to continue to push her agenda, but to purposely mislead residents is completely outrageous," wrote Karen Egert.

Keeping 'Public in the Dark' Seems to be School District Policy, Reader Says

In a letter to the editor, Michael Celock writes, "the school district is clearly picking and choosing what they believe the public should know."

Greta's Run Honors Memory of Beloved Westfield Teen

Friends and classmates of Greta Schoenemann, a Westfield High School student who passed away in 2002, have organized a 5K Run/Walk, 'Greta's Run,' in her honor.


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