Roundup Record Tribune & Winnett Times -

As it seems to be a constant bane of contemplations, I once again am persuaded to highlight the ineptness of understanding of communication and transparency from the Roundup Public School district and the administrators and elected board charged directly with keeping the taxpaying members of this community informed. In prior letters I have featured innumerable examples of the disregard of respect of direct communication for the community in which the Roundup Public Schools serve - including publishing board agendas, random days off for students learning expectations, masking mandates, and the indifference and stonewalling of a potential harmful and serious event towards the students and educators charged with this Districts guide.

Their latest avoidance of communication is regarding the superintendent search to replace the retiring administrator. It was noted last week in another publication the quiet search had netted six candidates who had applied for the position of running the Roundup Public Schools, with a meeting of interviews set for March 2. This information is blatantly omitted from any of the various platforms the District utilizes to communicate with, but had been silently displayed at the schools and district office It has further been noted- the District held interviews with three of the candidates early- on February 24th, due to one individual from out of state being available earlier. The individuals toured the schools, and it is reported the Board would like to make a determination at the March 14th board meeting.

In multiple competent schools throughout this great state, a superintendent search is a community event, one in which highlighting the candidates, their backgrounds, achievements, and other pertinent attributes is recognized as critical information for the parents, students, and taxpaying public to know who have applied for the important capacity of superintendent. The continued disregard of understanding by this board and leaving superintendent is appalling, but sadly status quo. It should also be questioned whether board policy and Montana open meeting laws were followed in their rushed search. I hope the next administrator has the communities best interest in mind, and helps to better communicate and be open with transparency to the students, parents, and taxpaying public that they work for.

“Communication is everyone’s panacea for everything” by T. Peters

Gary Vandyke

Roundup