In a recent meeting, Superintendent Dr. Portia Bonner addressed ongoing concerns regarding the Northampton Public School District, particularly in light of a recent vote of no confidence from the teachers' union. The superintendent emphasized her commitment to transparency and collaboration, despite challenges in engaging teachers due to scheduling conflicts and lack of stipends for participation in planning teams.

Dr. Bonner acknowledged the criticism surrounding her leadership, particularly regarding budget advocacy. She noted that the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year includes an 8% increase for teachers and a 12-14% increase for paraprofessionals, asserting that these figures are sufficient to maintain current services. She expressed disappointment over the union's vote, which saw 348 out of 364 votes in favor, highlighting that this represented less than half of the total membership.

The superintendent also addressed concerns about her presence in schools, stating that she regularly visits classrooms and engages with the community. She defended her initiatives, including the implementation of Restorative Practices and a new math curriculum, as part of the district's improvement plan, and called for a standardized assessment tool to better measure student progress.

In response to specific incidents, Dr. Bonner reiterated her commitment to restorative practices and healing the rift between the administration and the union. She urged for a collaborative approach moving forward, emphasizing the importance of working together for the benefit of students.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of the need for open communication and a collective effort to navigate the challenges ahead, particularly as the district prepares for significant changes following the budget approval. Dr. Bonner's remarks reflect a determination to foster a positive educational environment amidst ongoing tensions within the district.