Craven County parent demands accountability over secret recording of school meeting

During a recent Craven County Board of Education work session, a public input session revealed serious concerns regarding transparency and accountability within the district. Jonathan Davis, a parent, addressed the board about a troubling incident involving a private meeting with the superintendent, where he claims the conversation was recorded without his consent.

Davis recounted that during a meeting on November 22, the superintendent assured him that the discussion would not be recorded. However, he later discovered that the meeting had indeed been recorded and that an edited clip was shared with a board member, who forwarded it to Davis's employer, potentially jeopardizing his job. He raised critical questions about who authorized the recording, how it was stored, and why his Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request for the full recording had not been fulfilled.

"This act undermines the integrity of the leadership and the confidence that parents, teachers, and administrators place in this district," Davis stated, emphasizing the chilling effect such actions could have on open communication within the school system. He called for accountability, not just for himself, but for all stakeholders in the district who deserve honesty and respect.

In addition to his concerns about the recording, Davis also clarified his role in securing donations for a local amphitheater project, asserting that he was the driving force behind the initiative. He concluded his remarks by urging board members to adhere to the code of ethics, highlighting a perceived lack of accountability within the district's leadership.

The meeting underscored the need for improved transparency and trust between the school administration and the community, as parents and educators alike seek assurance that their voices will be heard without fear of retribution. As the board considers these issues, the community remains watchful for changes that prioritize integrity and open dialogue in Craven County Schools.