Letters

I am writing in response to the recent multi-page Q&A article, “School Board Member: Students Shortchanged,” published in The Southampton Press on July 3.

The piece presents a narrative about the Southampton School Board that is, at best, incomplete and at worst, misleading. While I respect the intent to spotlight district concerns, it’s troubling that no effort was made to verify the accuracy or context of statements, some directly or indirectly referencing me. The result is a divisive and unbalanced portrayal that undermines the board’s integrity and the community’s trust. Our residents deserve truthful dialogue, accurate reporting and responsible journalism.

To clarify: There has been no board action (formal or informal) to remove our superintendent. She has completed year one of a three-year contract. I supported a significant salary increase that placed her among the top 10 percent of superintendents statewide, an unmistakable endorsement and a gesture of support for her success.

I remain committed to ensuring equitable access and opportunity for all students. I believe in inclusive environments where students of every background can thrive together.

While I support the mission of the My Brother’s Keeper initiative, I voiced concern about the exclusive nature of one high school club. When access is limited solely by race and gender, we risk reinforcing the very inequities we aim to eliminate. The superintendent’s subsequent move to seek MBK Community designation for our district was a far more inclusive step, and one I publicly applauded.

Differences of opinion are normal and healthy on any board. But to imply coordinated efforts to remove leadership, or to frame board dynamics along racial lines, is not only inaccurate, it is harmful.

These narratives distract from what truly matters: transparency, sound governance and student-centered decision-making. We owe it to the community to rise above divisiveness and stay focused on our shared mission.

I stand by my record and my voice, which remains grounded in equity, guided by reason, and focused on the inclusive success of Southampton’s students.

SunHe Sherwood-Dudley

Trustee

Southampton Board of Education