BROCTON - A group of individuals who campaigned to prevent Brocton Central School's merger with Fredonia Central School hasn't disbanded.
It was successful in convincing Brocton School district residents to turn down the proposed merger, by a two to one margin.
A number of these same people, who referred to themselves as members of the Save Our School Committee, showed up at Thursday's Brocton School Board meeting.
This time, they brought five pages of suggestions and ideas designed, they said, to save the school district money.
Spokesperson Michelle Dolce said the list was the result of a brainstorming session the SOS committee held.
"We stand behind our school and our community; we want to see funds stretched and see Brocton thrive," she said.
In order to achieve this, she said, there is a need for a long term financial plan that meets the needs of the students and eliminates what she referred to as perks.
"These items could be done away with, without affecting the students," she said.
With that said, she and Doug Walter, another member of the audience, read the list of suggestions and ideas contained on the five pages.
Board members were seen taking notes as the list was read.
Dolce said she would provide the board with a copy of the list.
"We will work with you as a team," she said.
Tom Kurtz said the Brocton district needs less spending, less taxes and fewer teacher raises.
"The board should start using common sense," he said.
This public portion of the board meeting followed an executive session the board members had with BOCES Superintendent Robert Guiffreda regarding the selection of a new Brocton superintendent.
During the open session, Guiffreda outlined the process for the audience.
Saying the search for a new superintendent will be conducted across the country, "The board will have to fill a big set of shoes to replace Jack Skahill," Guiffreda said.
In order to achieve this, he said five focus groups will help with this search.
They will involve administrators, teachers, students, civil service and community members.
He also assured the community members that he will not pre-screen the candidates and that everyone who applies will be reviewed by the board.
"We want to have the new superintendent in place by July 1," Guiffreda said.
If that isn't possible, he added, an interim superintendent would be hired until the right person is found.
He concluded his presentation by congratulating the audience for asking what he called meaningful questions about the superintendent search.
Marty Burdick said the same.
"The committee did an excellent job of developing the list of recommendations," she said.
