The New Hartford Central School District (NHCSD) faces a pivotal juncture as
our current superintendent, who has failed to address ongoing racism,
harassment, bullying, and discrimination in our district, will transition as an
independent educational consultant. As he transitions, superintendent, Dr.
Tangora leaves behind a school district that has neglected its duty to address
cases of discrimination, bullying and harassment, thus, invalidating whole
sections of the student body and legitimizing the dehumanization of an entire
group of students based on perceived race, sex, gender, color, national origin,
and ethnic group.
The current superintendent’s failure to serve the needs of our community of
minority groups, which already constitutes 20% of the entire school population
should serve as a clear indication of why transparency and community
involvement are crucial in the selection of the next superintendent. As parents
and members of TIA, a volunteer-based action group comprised of NHCSD
students, experts in K-12 education, university professors, teachers, social
workers and social scientists, we advocate that our voices and the voices of the
New Hartford community, be heard when it comes to selecting the next
superintendent. Our collective experiences have demonstrated that through
strong leadership and a defined purpose, inclusivity within diverse environments
are possible and not utopian ideals.
The stakes are high for students who are attacked and continually harassed in
our school buildings. Only this year, according to national statistics, self-harm
and suicide rose from the third to the second leading cause of death of youth.
As such, it is imperative that we do not remain stagnant or passive in addressing
the pressing matters of harassment, bullying, and discrimination within our
educational institutions. In the coming weeks we must come together to
dissuade the BOE from conducting a closed search for the next superintendent.
As seen in the past, a closed search for the next superintendent will condemn us
of the same errors that have brought us to this situation.
Change is necessary and urgent; the next superintendent must be someone who is committed to creating a safe and inclusive learning environment for all. TIA invites all community members to make their voices heard during the next BOE meeting this Thursday August 15 at 6PM at the Bradley Elementary School in New Hartford, NY.
As we look towards the future, it is essential for the district to implement comprehensive ant-bullying and anti-discrimination policies, provide effective evidence-based training for all staff on cultural literacy. It is equally necessary for the district to pro-actively listen to the concerns of students and parents.
If you would like to learn more or set up and interview, please reach out to Aaron Das via 716-777-6505 or tiaofnheart@gmail.com.
