This is a statement from Elissa Malespina, First Vice President of the South Orange-Maplewood Board of Education, on Friday’s firing of Superintendent Ronald Taylor following no-confidence votes from the local teachers union and the Black Parents Workshop.

Our teachers, the very foundation of our educational system, valiantly issued a vote of no confidence, calling for the Superintendent’s immediate dismissal despite the palpable risk of reprisal. This sentiment was echoed by over 450 members of our community. It is a fundamental truth that leadership cannot stand when it has lost the trust of those it is meant to lead.

With heavy hearts but a clear vision, the board majority came to  understand that a mutual separation was untenable despite numerous attempts to do so, necessitating immediate and decisive action.

I extend my sincerest gratitude to our teachers for their bravery in voicing the challenges they face daily. Your concerns regarding Curriculum and Instruction have not fallen on deaf ears and have been duly noted for discussion at this month’s meeting. My thanks also go to Dr. Gilbert, who has graciously agreed to navigate these waters with us over the next few months. His interim leadership offers stability as we search for a lasting successor. I am committed to a cooperative transition and to supporting his leadership during my tenure.