Dunkirk’s school board moved quickly earlier this month to separate itself from former Superintendent Dr. James Tracy. What it did not do — ever — was to apologize for a snarky, insensitive remark that came from that office after a phone call on May 17.

Two days after a Dunkirk High freshman was stabbed and later died, a secretary showed absolutely no sympathy for the situation when the OBSERVER reached out to the district to speak with the superintendent. Her response remains unacceptable.

“That (stabbing) had nothing to do with the school,” she said abruptly. “It happened a couple of days ago.”

Being rude is one thing. Being uncaring and uncompassionate while working with our community’s children, however, is in no way acceptable.

Dunkirk school board members, the district and this community deserve better from the public employees who make their living off taxpayer dollars. Now, board members and district leaders need to demand it.