During a recent Manchester school board meeting, significant concerns regarding the education system were raised by community members, particularly focusing on attendance policies, school board engagement, and the need for improved communication between parents and the district.

Maureen Koetcher, a retired teacher with 24 years of experience, addressed the board, emphasizing the need for school board members to gain firsthand experience in classrooms. She criticized the board for their lack of visits to schools, stating that only a handful of members had taken the time to understand the realities of the educational environment. Koetcher proposed that board members should be required to substitute teach several days each semester to better grasp the challenges faced by teachers and students, particularly issues related to cell phone use and classroom engagement.

Koetcher also highlighted the problematic attendance policy implemented in the second quarter, which she argued has led to a decline in student attendance and engagement. She urged the board to reconsider this policy, citing New Hampshire laws that mandate clear attendance requirements. Additionally, she suggested outreach programs to assist non-English speaking parents in understanding school policies, advocating for tailored support rather than blanket policies that may not address individual needs.

Luis Maldonado, another resident and parent, voiced his frustrations regarding the district's handling of special education complaints. He has been seeking a private hearing with the board for nearly two years but has faced repeated obstacles. Maldonado expressed his dissatisfaction with the board's communication and transparency, particularly regarding the qualifications of educators within the district. He called for a private meeting to discuss these pressing issues, emphasizing the need for accountability and proper educational support for his children.

The meeting also featured a presentation from students who participated in the Isle of Shoals Marine Laboratory program, showcasing their experiences and the educational benefits they gained from hands-on learning opportunities. The students expressed gratitude for the program, which has been made possible through the support of local benefactors, highlighting the transformative impact of such initiatives on their education.

The school board concluded the meeting by acknowledging the comments made by community members and the importance of addressing the concerns raised, particularly in relation to improving educational policies and fostering better communication with parents.