Brockton High School Superintendent Placed on Leave, Sparks Fly at Committee Meeting
Sparks were flying at last night’s Brockton High School Committee meeting. Officials have been concerned with the uptick in fights, drugs, security risks in the past several months. Some have been pleading for help, even asking about bringing the National Guard in to assist. That request was essentially denied by Governor Maura Healey. She had deemed the move “not appropriate.” So last night’s meeting was a special case and was in place to address the situation.
The meeting was well received at Arnone Elementary School and tempers flared when Superintendent of Schools Mike Thomas got up to speak. You’ll remember, Thomas has been on leave since Aug. 31, 2023. At the same time, news had come out that Brockton High was facing a $14 million deficit. Coincidence? Could be. However, Thomas has denied having anything to do with the deficit. Thomas spoke saying he is well enough to come back, but that it was voted he stay on leave. Reason being, the committee wants a thorough investigation into the deficit. Thomas insists if he was still working, the issues and security concerns at BHS would NOT be happening. However, after a heated conversation with Mayor Robert Sullivan, the meeting was adjourned.
So what happens now? A likely investigation into the budget deficit for sure. But as for help with security concerns at the school, that remains to be seen. But when it comes to the national guard, it is quite clear, there are many opposed and feel it is NOT the answer.