‘It’s time for new leadership’ in Acton’s public schools
Students deserve leaders who are willing and able to take decisive action. Dr. Hunter has demonstrated she is not up to this task.
The July 22 Joint School Committee and Acton Select Board meeting on antisemitism in Acton public schools made one thing clear: Our community is ready for real action.
The Select Board and School Committee showed empathy, constructive dialogue, and a commitment to change. Members repeatedly emphasized that “clear responses, not vague statements” are needed, and they asked, “How quickly can we implement state Rep. Simon Cataldo’s recommendations?” They agreed on a consistent theme: Transparency has been sorely lacking, and we need to act now.
In stark contrast, Acton-Carlisle Superintendent Dr. Laurie Hunter offered only vague generalities and no clear action plan. She described herself and her team as “overwhelmed” and insisted that the pervasive antisemitism at Acton-Carlisle High School was “addressed as best we could,” while acknowledging, “We know we can do more.”
But why did it take a federal civil rights complaint to bring a culture of hate at CCHS to light? Why has there been so little transparency with the community for months?
And why, despite mounting evidence, has Dr. Hunter refused to act?
Acton and Carlisle students deserve safe schools free from antisemitism and hate. They deserve leaders who are willing and able to take decisive action. Dr. Hunter has demonstrated she is not up to this task.
It’s time for new leadership that will protect every student and restore trust in our schools. Our community cannot wait any longer.
Aaron Steinfurth
Park Lane
