A Community Speaks Up
The East Brunswick Board of Education meeting held on Thursday, April 26, was not just another gathering, but a moment of community solidarity. The packed meeting turned into a platform where numerous residents stood up to voice their concerns related to the budget shortfall, including the decision to lay off Dr. Louis Figueroa, Assistant Superintendent. Not only a figure beloved for his deep commitment to all of the children of East Brunswick, Dr. Figueroa is also a member of our community. His dedication has earned him the love and respect of the town he serves and the families and students whose lives he has touched. His many responsibilities include Special Education, which will be divided amongst a variety of other positions in the coming school year. The dismissal of such a key figure raises serious questions about the values we champion as a town.
Who Remains at the Helm
As we reflect on the proceedings of April 26, it is crucial to address the language used by Assistant Superintendent Bernie Giuliana. Approximately 36 minutes into the proceedings, as captured by EBTV, Giuliana used the phrase “the private schools for the handicapped”—a term that has long been considered outdated and even problematic. It is concerning that a leader in education in the district is not aware of this. Combined with the recent efforts of the administration to scapegoat “unexpected costs” in Special Education as being partially responsible for the budget shortfall is notable. While costs are increasing to meet the needs of our diverse student population, it shouldn’t have come as a surprise, nor should it be spoken about as if it’s a burden rather than an important priority for our district.
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Setting Expectations
At the very least, we expect our district leaders to exhibit a level of awareness and compassion that serves the needs of our students. Using outdated and insensitive language undermines the trust and respect fundamental to the educational environment. It is essential that every member of our academic leadership understands the importance of appropriate language, ensuring that all students, and their families, feel valued and supported.
Like we teach in our schools, words matter.
Need for Empathetic Leadership
This incident underscores the critical need for leaders like Dr. Figueroa, whose approach to education is deeply rooted in empathy and understanding. His leadership style is not just about administrative duties; it’s about ensuring that every student feels seen, heard, and supported. The role of an educational leader is to guide with compassion, to advocate for all students, and be mindful of the impact their words and actions have on the community. East Brunswick prides itself on being a forward-thinking town that values diversity and inclusivity. However, Giuliana’s remarks remind us that there is still much work to be done. We must not only correct these missteps but also ensure that our leaders reflect the values we hold dear.
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