Newburgh School Board faces community backlash over policies and leadership decisions

The Board of Education (BOE) Regular Meeting held on April 22, 2025, in New York, focused on pressing issues affecting the local school district, with community members voicing concerns about educational policies and board conduct.

The meeting commenced with a call for reflection on the community's conduct and its impact on students. A speaker emphasized the need for honesty and collaboration among board members, urging them to serve as positive role models for scholars. This sentiment set the tone for subsequent discussions.

Tracy Wallace, a parent and community member, highlighted her participation in a code of conduct event, where various stakeholders, including parents, teachers, and board members, collaborated to identify solutions for improving student outcomes. She compared the district's policies with those of neighboring districts, noting their higher graduation rates and suggesting that Newberg should adopt similar community-focused strategies.

Wallace also raised concerns about the district's approach to student discipline, arguing that current policies disproportionately affect students from marginalized communities. She called for more supportive measures, such as after-school programs, rather than punitive actions like suspensions, which she believes hinder students' educational progress.

Shaday Burks, another community member, commended the students who spoke at the meeting and criticized board members for their lack of engagement during public comments. She pointed out that the board's reactive strategies often fail to address the needs of students, particularly those from African American and Spanish-speaking backgrounds.

Further criticism was directed at the board president for her handling of public comments, with allegations of selective enforcement of policies that silence dissenting voices. A speaker argued that this behavior exemplifies institutional racism, calling for the board to reflect on its leadership practices and improve its engagement with the community.

The meeting concluded with a call for more effective governance, as community members expressed frustration over the board's recent decisions, including the dismissal of several administrators. Concerns were raised about the lack of transparency and communication from the board, as well as the need for a clear vision for the district's future.

Overall, the meeting underscored a growing demand for accountability and collaboration within the school district, with community members urging the board to prioritize student needs and foster a more inclusive environment.