Staff Writer
A number of Caribou residents attended the recent regular meeting of the Caribou Board of Education held at the Caribou superintendent’s office. Although the education meetings are public, with the exception of any executive session deemed necessary, the normal attendance outside of the six-member panel, educators and administrators might include occasional parents or individuals representing civic organizations.
Of the 11 items listed on the August 6, agenda number six was what encouraged some of those in attendance to take advantage of the opportunity for public comment (agenda number 3).
Pertaining to agenda item six which read: “The Board will consider approval of the Board’s findings and conclusions regarding the dismissal of Kirsten Albair,” the education panel unanimously approved the updated draft regarding the finding of facts summary against the Caribou High School English teacher.
Prior to this draft being presented to the board of education for approval, several citizens voiced their opinion regarding this highly volatile community issue.
With her five children having been educated in the Caribou school system, Merlene Thibodeau admonished the school board members and the superintendent stating, “ I am very disappointed with what is happening at the Caribou High School, I’m disappointed with the school board and the principal. The accused has already been punished; you have created a double jeopardy.”
Following Mrs. Thibodeau, her husband Eugene introduced himself, reinforcing his wife’s feelings, he informed the education board, “I’ve paid taxes in town for more than 40 years, if I had any way I could withdraw the percentage of my taxes that have gone to the school, I would do it.”
Choosing to approach the podium available for speakers during the meetings, Mark Goughan said he was not at the meeting to speak in regard to the controversial issue but rather he stated, “I would like to thank all of you for doing the work you do.” Goughan also noted that he was present in support of the school administration, the board and in support of the students.
Visibly upset, former educator at the Caribou High School, Virginia White minced no words while directly addressing the education board and superintendent with, “I am ashamed, ashamed of you people and the tactics used. I’m alarmed.” White also commented on how saddened she was pertaining to the credibility of teachers versus students.
Upon the approval of the number six agenda item by the school board, most, but not all, of the attending guests left the conference room.
