Tewksbury School Committee: We're Investigating Union Complaints

TEWKSBURY, MA — The Tewksbury School Committee said they are investigating the teachers union's complaints about the administration Wednesday, but they are not ready to take action.

The Tewksbury Teachers Association voted no confidence in the superintendent and assistant superintendent Nov. 23. The Committee commented on the vote Wednesday in response to a public commenters questions at their regular meeting.

Union members who attended the Nov. 23 meeting voted overwhelmingly in favor of the no confidence motion. Union officials cited unprofessional behavior as the reason for the Tewskbury Teacher Association's vote.

"There are really three major reasons for the no confidence vote," union President Josh Bilodeau told Patch. "Firstly, the Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent have not shown leadership. There's a level of micromanaging and lack of trust for teachers and aides that causes unneeded tension and stress. Additionally, there has been a pattern of unprofessional communication on the part of the Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent towards teachers and aides."

Committee members praised the teachers, but also praised the administrators and said they are still investigating the matter.

"Myself and the vice-chairman are attempting to set up a meeting with the union, and we'll also be sitting down with the administration," Chairman Keith Sullivan said.

"People are rushing to judgments that are unfair," said Clerk Shannon Demos, who noted she is a former member of the union.

"I'm seeing emails that have opinions in hurtful language," Demos added. "I'm doing due diligence, fact-finding and investigations before I come in front of this town and make any decisions publicly."

"It's my belief that we have an outstanding superintendent and an outstanding assistant superintendent," Vice-Chairman James Cutelis said.

The superintendent and the assistant superintendent did not comment on the union vote at the meeting. Patch contacted the superintendent's office for comment but did not receive a response.

Christopher Huffaker can be reached at 412-265-8353 or chris.huffaker@patch.com.