As I wrap up my 14th year on the New London Board of Education I have been doing some hard thinking. I think how I have seriously been trying tirelessly to get items across the school board agenda that will benefit the district. For many years I fought to see that the school budget be as transparent as humanly possible. I worked to see that policy include details that outline ways to protect students and staff. I fought for a curriculum that was robust and proven to see students achieve.

As the board begins the superintendent’s evaluations, I looked at where we are now in comparison to two years ago. Here are my observations. Currently, with Tommy Thompson working on curriculum, we have made many strides. We may have a uniform curriculum by mid-year. Policy is being implemented in line with state-required policies. Without a full-time human resources director, new candidates for hire are being vetted to the highest degree of background checks. I do have some issues with how we are relaying finance information. One would question why it is taking so long for the promised system, which is supposed to give clear information on all areas of spending

Jason Catala

New London