I want to explain to members of the Bonny Eagle (SAD 6) and Sacopee Valley (SAD 55) communities my recent request to have the state investigate the actions of superintendents Frank Sherburne and Carl Landry following the revelation that neither followed state statute in the hiring of an employee. (Sherburne has since resigned.)

It was not without much reflection that I chose to ask the state to investigate. My boys go to school here. My family, friends and colleagues live and work in these communities.

I know many wonderful people in these communities who work very hard to do what is best for our children and our educational systems. They deserve, and in fact should insist, that they have leaders who will encourage, support and promote that work.

It is unfortunate that the actions of a few individuals have cast a bad light on what are otherwise wonderful school districts and communities. These communities are full of families and businesses that work together for the greater good of our children and towns, and should be full of pride in the work that happens in these communities.

If, indeed, the two gentlemen in question actually felt the same about the communities they serve, they would have acted in a more proper manner, but it appears that they didn’t. This forces someone like me, who shares their profession, to call them to reflect on where their responsibilities lie.

Communities need to be able to place trust in their educators, administrators and school board systems to do what is right for our children with a level of integrity and transparency.

I did this because I love my children and I love these communities. They deserve to be respected and recognized for the wonderful people and places they are.

Amanda Cooper

Buxton