by Inanna Arthen
Public meetings held on Monday, September 27 and Wednesday, September 29 were lightly attended, with no members of the public or school community showing up on Monday night to contribute feedback to representatives from the Massachusetts Association of School Committees (MASC), which is conducting the search for a permanent Superintendent of Schools.

On Wednesday night, several persons attended the meeting with MASC representative Liz LaFond. Despite the small number, those attending had a lively discussion which ran for over an hour. Rather than follow the structure planned by Ms. LaFond for a larger group, the attendees talked freely about the school system, their concerns and their experiences. The dedication and hard work of Winchendon's teachers was praised, with the staff overall considered one of the district's strengths. Concerns included retaining staff and students, funding, morale, communication with the community, transparency, the visibility and involvement of the Superintendent, and attention to arts and music. All agreed that they wanted a Superintendent with strong leadership ability who worked well with staff and developed a relationship with the town and with parents. Other "wants" included more diversity among the staff.

Ms. LaFond took many notes, and gave her email address for those who had more input: LLafond@masc.org.

An online survey is available through Friday, October 1 at www.surveymonkey.com/r/Winchendon.

Any member of the Winchendon community is welcome to take the survey.