School district needs watchdogs

Watchdogs expose how the majority of Beaufort County Board of Education members do not recognize the complete responsibility of their positions.

It’s not just about children learning. They oversee a $228 million budget, headed by a superintendent who is responsible for every aspect of this operation. The board has the responsibility of making sure the school district adheres to and is in compliance with state laws and regulations.

The majority of this school board are lax in this responsibility.

They recklessly spend the deep pocket money of Beaufort County taxes, are themselves guilty of engaging in private board whispers with other community members and are trying to “kill the messenger” when questions are raised.

Former board chair Mary Cordray (Hilton Head Plantation and Windmill Harbor representative) refused to forward some board members’ questions to the capable superintendent to handle. Instead she chose to exercise an unwritten policy over written policy and obstruct questions because she didn’t want the school staff to be overworked — therefore micromanaging.

I read about the 300 false charges on the school district charge cards and the errant school district financial information online that have produced defensive statements instead of corrective solutions or explanations.

I ask myself, what’s next to be uncovered?

I thank these watchdogs for the information they provide to the community and appreciate their efforts.

This story was originally published June 24, 2017 at 6:00 AM with the headline "School district needs watchdogs."