The absentee Democratic BOE candidates.

Given the import of the issues, I confess I was dismayed that every gallery seat was empty. Where were the parents concerned about school performance? Where were the taxpayers concerned about the impact of school modernization on their annual levies? Most importantly, where were the candidates?

I’m thrilled four people beyond the two incumbents seeking re-election have raised their hands to fill open seats. Yet not one of these candidates, save Michael Sheehan, has seen fit to attend the September or October business meetings since announcing their candidacy.These meetings occur every third Thursday of the month. As the name suggests, their purpose is to conduct district business.

One would hope these committed citizens would show up if for no other reason than to glean some insight into procedures, issues, dynamics, and personalities of those folks with whom they’ll be working for the next couple of years. Cheshire deserves board members who are committed enough to its schools to learn the ropes of the jobs they’re seeking before they find thenselves in the hot seat.

Faith Ham