During times of transition and change, questions arise and open discussion is critical. With this in mind, several meetings were held over the past week.
The faculty and staff met once to discuss the transition process, ask questions and share their thoughts. From that meeting it was determined that there was a need to select by consensus a core group of faculty leaders to help guide the transition process. The faculty agreed quickly that there should be representation from each division as well as "the specials" and that those representatives would be: Judy Leigh, from the pre-primary division; Sharon Fichthorn, from the primary division; Martha Platt, from the intermediate division; and Trina Gable, from "the specials."
Over 20 parents met on Tuesday, May 5th for a meeting similar to that of the faculty. The parents held a round-table discussion to explore the process of Oak Lane's transition, ask questions, share their thoughts, and build consensus as to what next steps are needed to secure a bright future for Oak Lane Day School.
The message in both the parent and faculty meetings was one of the need for significant change in the school leadership and for more transparency, particularly with regards to the work of the Board. Both groups expressed a desire for open board meetings and a clear understanding of the roles and responsibilities for board members, as well as the selection criteria used in the nominating process. Everyone agreed that thought should be put to what areas of expertise are needed to run a healthy organization and potential trustees with such expertise should be identified to lead the organization during this time of transition. Finally, the need for change balanced with continuity was expressed.
It was agreed that a time-line for the transition process needs to be established with key tasks and decisions clearly marked and defined. There was consensus that the transition process should be such that ideas are being brought forward, feedback is received, and consensus is built. There were several parents who would also like to see things moving swiftly yet thoughtfully.
The meetings were positive in tone and the commitment and strategic thinking of the faculty and parents clear. The next meeting will be held on May 19 at 7 p.m. in the school library. The anticipated agenda is to hear an update from the Location Committee and plan next steps.
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Hello, everyone. My name is Lisa Greenwald (now "Era"). I attended this wonderful institution from nursery school through the sixth grade and graduated in 1968.
ReplyDeleteThis past weekend I learned of the school's closing through a chance meeting with a former classmate. I was instantly transported to a place and time in my life that I don't often revisit, but probably should. Flooded with memories, I was at once overwhelmed by a sense of great loss and immense gratitude. Simply put, Oak Lane saved my life (and the lives of many others, I am quite sure). I wish that future generations could have the privilege of childhood and education spent at Oak Lane. I think the world will be worse for its absence.
Armand, if you're reading this, thank you a thousand times for instilling in me a life-long love of Art and French. And to the late Martha Hunter, I attribute my deep connection to animals and nature.
I can and want to hear from any Oak Laners. Please email me at igera@aol.com.
I hope to see everyone in May!
Warmest regards,
Lisa