To the Editor:

For anyone who watched the Board of Education meeting on June 1, I think we can all agree that it was a completely different atmosphere underneath those board members in attendance. As a resident of Newtown, it brought me joy as student after student bravely stood before the Board and spoke truth and reason, oftentimes with incredible vulnerability as they shared their own personal stories. It also seems as if the remaining board members were finally able to truly listen to the students, parents and educators who were urging them for weeks to consider context and the environment.

I know I am echoing the sitting Board of Education members when I say how proud we are of those brave students who did not let people bully them into silence. Student voices were vital in this decision, and I thank the board for taking them into consideration. These young adults learned a lot about democracy and advocacy. In an age where adults tend to worry about “this generation” and their “need for safe places and coddling” I can honestly say that this generation is doing just fine. They stood their ground, even when former members of the board were working behind the scenes to silence them, they continued to show up and speak out.

I also would like to thank Deb Zukowski for doing her best to keep our students safe. One rule of public participation is that whoever is speaking may not direct their comments at anyone in the audience. However, one woman stood up and addressed the board with something completely off topic of what was on the agenda. As she turned to address our students sitting in the front row, Deb quickly cut her off and threatened to call a recess. This is what it looks like to keep our students safe. She shielded our students from a woman who is on her own personal crusade to keep our LGBTQ+ students in the closet.

I appreciate the honesty that we heard on June 1. For the first time in a long time students felt listened to. I appreciate how both Mr Ramsey and Ms Zukowski were able to listen and learn and use that information to shift their viewpoint. They were examples of what happens when we use education to grow. The ability to truly listen to our students’ experiences will ultimately benefit our growing, diverse community here in Newtown.

Carrie Grummons

Newtown