Groveport Madison Can Do Better

As someone who’s lived in Groveport Madison my whole life, graduated from our schools, and paid taxes here for decades, I care deeply about our community and our schools. I’ve seen a lot over the years, but lately I’m more concerned than ever about how Groveport Madison Schools are being run.

A good example is the project at 4500 S. Hamilton Road. For years, district leaders have said our middle schools need interior walls to make classrooms safer and quieter for learning, yet we’re told there isn’t enough money for that. Meanwhile, the superintendent and board majority found funding for a project many folks around town call a “pet project,” part of which is meant to house students from other districts.

What makes this especially troubling is that the district has no long-term facilities plan, even though board policy says one is required to guide major spending. Other building needs have gone unaddressed, and the 4500 project wasn’t brought to the full board for review. Board members never saw the building plans, but the two incumbents—President Seth Bower and Vice President LaToya Dowdell-Burger—still voted to approve it, even though the grant expected to pay for it had not been awarded.

Concerns about oversight don’t stop there. Two separate lawsuits were filed in the board’s name against members who often ask the tough questions. One was filed by Dowdell-Burger and another by Bower before any formal board vote, adding to legal costs that topped one million dollars in the last fiscal year.

Transparency has also taken a hit. A $7,000 staff survey, paid for with district funds, has not been shared with board members who asked to see it or with the public. The superintendent said it was “flawed,” but taxpayers still paid for it. People deserve to see what they paid for and make up their own minds.

During the public-participation portion of meetings, board leadership has repeatedly cut off or censored speakers who try to raise uncomfortable issues. Whether that’s the intent or not, it gives the impression that certain voices aren’t welcome—and that’s not how open government should work.

In my opinion, the same pattern shows up elsewhere. The past and current board presidents have refused to appoint members to key committees, including the Policy and Facilities committees—the very places where planning and oversight should happen.

Our board meetings often run five hours or more, stretching late into the night. It’s hard to believe the best decisions are made when everyone’s tired and rushing to wrap up.

Groveport Madison has a lot to be proud of, but we can do better. It’s time for leadership that follows policy, uses common sense, and puts students and the community first. Our schools belong to all of us, and we deserve decisions made with care, honesty, and transparency.

— Wayne Bryan

Groveport Madison Resident, Graduate and Taxpayer

Apple Butter Day

Apple butter day this year was a Great Success. I would like to thank The Heritage Society ,all the volunteers, vendors, city employees, and musicians that made it special. A special shoutout should be extended to Carla and Bob Cramer for their dedication and the many hours spent behind the scenes to make it such a great success. The Fantastic Community Choir started everything off in a grand fashion and the acts after that had very good attendance. My Great Grand kids loved all the activities provided by the people that provided the petting zoo, hayrides, vintage tractors, the pony rides and activities only for kids.

A community that plays together stays together.

-Jay Montgomery

No edits have been made to these submissions. All Letters to the Editor are welcome, please email tgaree@cherryroad.com. Space demands will determine publication.