School Board President Apologizes

‘Mishandled’ Communication Led

To Appearance Of CCS Insensitivity

Editor’s Note:  CCS board President Theresa Russo issued this statement this afternoon, saying a miscommunication inadvertently created the appearance of insensivity toward 30-year elementary school secretary Laurie Pestar.  The matter has now been resolved to the family’s satisfaction she said.

On behalf of the Cooperstown Central School Board of Education, we apologize for what appeared to be an insensitive response to Mrs. Pestar’s situation.

While it is true that on our meeting of Nov. 2, 2016, we denied the unpaid leave request, we did so with the specific understanding that there was an alternate and more beneficial plan presented to Mrs. Pestar and her family.

Unfortunately, the communication around this alternate plan was mishandled, and during that time, Mrs. Pestar received a form letter denying her request with no additional communication or explanation.

Although we cannot divulge specific personnel information, we are happy to report that the situation has been resolved to everyone’s satisfaction. We appreciate the support the community and the students have shown for the Pestar family, and we are sincerely sorry for any distress caused by the unfortunate miscommunications surrounding this issue.  Thank you.

Sincerely,

Dr. Theresa Russo,

CCS Board of Education President