Pinelands Regional Teachers' Union Bashes Biz Administrator

LITTLE EGG HARBOR — The majority of the members of the Pinelands Regional school district teachers' union recently signed a "no confidence" petition against the district business administrator, according to a report in app.com.

Union president Mel Reid read a statement to the Board of Education at a board meeting on Monday.

"The gravity of such a vote is not taken lightly, but the current crisis enveloping the district must be addressed," Reid said.

He said district Business Administrator Stephen J. Brennan had failed to properly inform staff and students about health and safety issues related to asbestos and air quality resulting from the district's ongoing roof construction project.

"The Association believes that Mr. Brennan has displayed poor judgment and a failure to effectively communicate," Reid said, which caused confusion and frustration among staff and parents. "Pinelands Regional School District deserves better from its business administrator."

District officials have been grappling with asbestos-related problems and air quality issues since a roofing project began at the high school school back in June.

The decision to close the school indefinitely was made after a roofing screw apparently fell on a student, Acting Superintendent Cheryl Stevenson has said.

The school district has been plagued with problems since a multi-million dollar roof and facade renovation project started in June. off the screws while replacing the roof.

Brennan said contractor problems were uncovered during the roofing project. But he said he quickly informed other school officials of problems and health concerns as they arose.

"I understand and appreciate your concern for the situation," he told the audience. "I can assure you the safety and security of the Pinelands Regional students and staff remains my main priority."

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Image: Pinelands Regional School District