BSSD Board talks teacher morale
BSSD Board talks teacher morale
By Logan Watson
The Bradford Special School District’s Board of Education met last Monday night, discussing the morale of teachers at Bradford High School.
Clayton McDade informed his fellow Board members and Superintendent Dr. Dan Black that he had received complaints regarding the administration’s treatment of teachers at Bradford High School.
McDade stated that he had approached Dr. Black about the morale issue at the school two months ago, and the situation has only worsened.
TEACHER MORALE – BHS Principal Laura Brimm defends her administration after Board members discuss complaints about teacher morale at her school. Photo by Logan Watson.
“Going up there and chewing out the teachers just because we’re not a Level 5 school? We’re not going to be a Level 5 school every year. You can’t worry about that. We’ve got to support each other and help each other out. Pat them on the back, say they’re doing a good job.”
McDade said that belittling teachers for last year’s test scores and sending them for training in Dyer County was akin to a slap in the face when they’re already downtrodden.
Black stated that he has spoken with some teachers about the matter and acknowledged that losing longtime Principal Shane Paschall, as well as the other issues that the BSSD has been wrestling with as of late, has had a negative impact on instruction.
“When you have a complaint, tell them to come see the Principal or me,” Dr. Black said. “That’s what your job is. I appreciate you listening to them, but you’re not going to be able to solve it. We can. This ain’t the place to discuss it.”
Later in the meeting, BHS Principal Laura Brimm stated that she felt morale was good and that the teachers who went to Dyersburg High School for training learned a lot.
“I feel our school culture is good and I feel like it is continuing to grow” Brimm said. “Our teachers feel empowered and they feel challenged. Our students are being held accountable. I think they feel safe now. Not that they didn’t, but we’ve got a few more things in place to make sure that they feel safe, and I feel like they’re challenged academically.”
Brimm also noted that the BHS junior high students recently had their first dance, which was a huge success.
“I feel like we’re doing great,” she concluded. “My door is open if you have questions or concerns. We’re doing things to promote learning, help our teachers and challenge students.”
Other Business
Special Populations Supervisor Paul Richards informed the Board that he would be leaving the BSSD to take a job with the University of Tennessee system. Richards thanked everyone he had worked with during his time in Bradford for helping him to grow both professionally and personally. Richards’ last day with the district is December 13.
The Board also discussed a handful of maintenance projects that it would be completing over the next few years, such as painting, restroom repairs and locker installation in the new classroom addition. The district is also planning on creating a walkway through the grassy area in front of BHS from the parking lot to the gym.
