SAANYS statement regarding recent events at Binghamton CSD

ALBANY, NY (02/06/2019) (readMedia)-- ALBANY, NY -There have been allegations by parents and others that building leaders in the Binghamton City School District recently made decisions resulting in inappropriate actions with students. Leadership roles in school districts are challenging, sometimes involving the need for minute-by-minute decisions regarding multiple issues, often related to the health and well-being of students. We are confident that the district and building leaders in Binghamton regularly engage in a thoughtful decision-making process, cognizant of pertinent laws, regulations, and policies, and with a student-centered focus.

Following an internal district investigation, the allegations were determined to be unfounded. However, the Binghamton City School District has also authorized an independent investigation into the actions at East Middle School. All should welcome the light this investigation can shed on what occurred. In determining the next steps needed, it is critical to assure that everyone involved is treated fairly.

We naturally understand that parents, concerned about their children, may want a quicker process. However, proceeding with a measured approach to considering differing perspectives and accounts is in the best interest of all. Ultimately, what is needed is a determination of facts. The students, staff, and community of Binghamton deserve a fair and balanced process.

Implying knowledge of undetermined facts, and assuming motives, is not only unhelpful, but ultimately harmful. Absent more complete knowledge, public proclamations about what may have happened, coupled with calls for actions that would damage the careers of caring educators, are irresponsible. Inflammatory rhetoric from anyone has no place in resolving the tensions, or in planning for any adjustments to procedures going forward.

Those leading the Binghamton City School District are rationally addressing concerns raised. SAANYS encourages all other interested parties to do the same and proceed with the advantage of having as much accurate information as can be gathered.

SAANYS represents nearly 7,200 school administrators, supervisors, and coordinators. As a professional association, SAANYS is committed to providing direction, service, and support to the membership in their efforts to improve the quality of education and leadership in New York State schools. SAANYS is affiliated with the National Association of Elementary School Principals (NAESP) and the National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP).

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