Written by Suzanne Russell
[…]Meanwhile, the union representing teachers and other staff members considered taking a no-confidence vote regarding the superintendent, who was brought into the district before the start of the school year to lead reform in the special-needs district of about 10,000 students. But she has met opposition from some board members and staff.
An emergency meeting of the union leadership was called on Wednesday to consider all options after Caffrey was reinstated as superintendent, said Donna Chiera, president of Perth Amboy Federation/AFT.
Chiera said the first question that was asked was whether the leadership had confidence in the superintendent.
“The majority said they did not have confidence in the superintendent,” Chiera said, adding that although some advocated for a no-confidence vote, the leadership instead decided to develop a statement of what they stand for and what the district’s leader needs to do, and if they can’t do what’s needed, the leader should step aside. The statement is expected to be completed by early next week. Chiera said it was after the leadership had completed its business that Board of Education President Samuel Lebreault and Vice President Kenneth Puccio met with leaders to answer questions. She said attorneys for the board and union authorized Lebreault and Puccio’s 25-minute visit.
Although Caffrey had heard there were discussions on new tactics to get rid of her, Chiera disputes that.
“At no point did anyone from the board approach the union to ask for a no-confidence vote,” Chiera said. “I don’t think we’re looking to hang her in effigy.”
Nonetheless, Chiera questions whether Caffrey should continue as superintendent. She said she might need to step aside so the district can move forward.
“I don’t know if she can lead us. If she can’t lead us and we look at what is best for the district, I don’t know if she should be there. I don’t believe the staff has the faith and confidence to follow her to make the changes in the district that need to be made,” Chiera said. “I think the marriage is over.”
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