Lexington-Richland 5's school board fired an outgoing member because he spoke publicly about a meeting held behind closed doors.During Monday's meeting, the school board voted 4-2 in favor of censureing Ed White. White, who had made public statements about the June 14 executive session and sent a statement to reporters, critiquing several members of the board for creating a hostile environment and pushing out Christina Melton, the outgoing superintendent.Jan Hammond, chair of Lexington-Richland 5, stated during the meeting that Lexington-Richland 5's policies forbid board members from speaking publicly about matters in executive session.Hammond stated that the board should follow its policies. We shouldn't be able to operate as rogue members of the board without being punished.Rebecca Blackburn Hines was a member of the school board who voted against the reprimand. She said that it wasn't worth censuring someone who has resigned. White technically remains on the board through July 14, however White's nametag & chair were not visible during Monday's meeting.Hammond claimed that White made false statements regarding the board after Meltons' resignation. However, when Blackburn Hines asked her which Whites comments were false she didn't elaborate.Since then, Akil Ross, a former principal of a national high school, has been elected to be the superintendent until the district finds a permanent superintendent. Ross, who will assume office July 1, was seen shaking hands with the board and taking notes.This was the first time that public comment could be made at a board meeting. Meltons departure has already caused a protest, but only four people spoke during public comment.Ali Hendrick, Dutch Fork High teacher, was one of them. The microphone was occupied by two other teachers from the district, each with bundles of artworks, notes, and other materials, all meant to thank Melton for her time at Lexington Richmond 5.Continue the storyHendrick stated that many people were shocked by the June 14 meeting.Hendrick encouraged people to listen to Hendrick's advice to look beyond the boardroom to the classroom where educators are more committed to the students.Many people mistakenly believe that D5 is what happens here on Monday night, Hendrick stated, referring to board meetings, which are usually scheduled for Mondays. The Monday meeting is just one part of the activities that take place in the district.Vote breakdownEd White should be censuringCatherine HuddleKen LovelessJan HammondNikki GardnerEd White is against censuring
