Board member must be more circumspect

Watching the second censure of Naperville Unit District 203 school board member Dave Weeks was dispiriting. Globally, I think Mr. Weeks’ problems and his censure boil down to two issues: lack of discretion and a need to understand his role as a board member.

Anyone who knows Dave Weeks understands he’s a talker; nothing wrong with that, as long as he knows where to draw the line. It’s clear to me that Dave needs to be more circumspect in his comments and show some discretion. One of the issues the board censured him for was discussing aspects of the teachers contract with residents while it was being negotiated. He feels that’s acceptable. I agree with the board, it’s not.

Secondly, Mr. Weeks needs to understand his role as a board of education member. I thought board member Terry Fielden said it well when he stated their authority ends when they leave the board room. Mr. Weeks has no authority, none whatsoever, to discuss personnel matters with principals, or investigate land deals for the district.

Listening to the discussion, it’s clear to me that Dave didn’t get this before, and after all the discussion, still doesn’t get it. It is troubling that he doesn’t seem to feel he is acting inappropriately by freely discussing matters from closed sessions. The remainder of the board does, and the district’s code of conduct is clear as well. One of the provisions is: “Take no private action that might compromise the board or administration and shall respect the confidentiality of privileged information” He needs to take those words seriously.

Thom Higgins

Naperville