The Mount Vernon Board of Education held a regular meeting on January 7, 2025, where significant discussions centered around community engagement and the ongoing search for a new superintendent. A key concern raised by board members was the accessibility of meetings held at local schools, particularly regarding the restructuring of schools and the impact on families.

During the meeting, board members expressed frustration over the limited attendance at recent meetings, especially those held during school hours when many parents were unable to participate. One trustee highlighted that a meeting at Leadership Academy had only 12 parents in attendance, raising concerns about effective communication with the predominantly Spanish-speaking community. The absence of interpreters at these meetings was also noted as a barrier to participation.

Trustees questioned the decision-making process behind restricting attendance at school meetings, emphasizing that community members, not just parents and staff, should have the opportunity to engage in discussions that affect them. The board discussed the need for more inclusive meetings, suggesting that future gatherings should be well-advertised and include interpreters to accommodate all community members.

In addition to community engagement issues, the board addressed the status of the search for a new superintendent, which was initiated in December. The progress of this search was briefly mentioned, with plans for further discussions in executive sessions.

The meeting also touched on human resources matters, including the hiring process for custodial positions amidst school closures. Concerns were raised about the rationale behind hiring decisions, particularly when internal candidates were overlooked in favor of provisional hires.

As the board continues to navigate these challenges, the emphasis remains on improving communication and ensuring that all community voices are heard in the decision-making process. The next steps will involve scheduling additional meetings to foster greater community involvement and transparency as the district moves forward with its restructuring plans.