WATERBURY, Conn. (WTNH) — The Waterbury School Board was faced with an important decision regarding Superintendent Dr. Verna Ruffin's term of office.
After Mayor Paul Pernelewski vetoed a proposed three-year contract extension and instead insisted on a one-year extension, the board voted to override his veto.
“There is a serious issue of communication issues between the superintendent and teachers and administrators,” Pernelewski said. “The scores aren't where they need to be. The communications aren't where they need to be, so we're going to start looking at whether they're getting where they need to be.”
During the public comment session, parents and students expressed differing opinions.
“She participates in every event that students are hosting or participating in. We felt it was worth speaking up for, especially since she is a role model for all of us,” said Lucian, a senior at Kennedy High School.・Taylor said.
Some words during the meeting heightened tensions.
The board will then try to decipher the language and legality of the charter as to whether the mayor's motion to override his veto is actually valid and whether the mayor must negotiate a three-year contract with Ruffin. I tried.
Mr. Pernelevskiy announced plans to consult with his attorney to understand next steps.
“We'll see what this means because I don't think we know exactly what the board voted on,” Pernelewski said.
Mr. Ruffin responded to concerns, promised to address communication issues and thanked the board for its support.
“I'm going to walk you through all the communication issues that people are talking about so that you understand what exactly communication means,” Ruffin said.
“I’m very impressed with the board’s commitment and the value they see.”
