OUR TURN: More transparency is needed for BCISD board

The Burnet Consolidated Independent School District board needs to demonstrate more awareness of their responsibility to inform the public.

Recently, after emerging from a three-hour executive session, the trustees voted 5-2 to extend the contract for Superintendent Jeff Hanks through 2013.

Immediately before the vote — as soon as board President Andy Feild motioned for action on the matter — it would have been appropriate for board members to comment on their decision.

However, the trustees remained silent.

In addition, after another long closed-door session, the trustees voted 4-3 to take “no action” on the matter of a one-year extension to the contract  of Assistant Superintendent Dr. Judi Whitis.

Again, trustees remained silent immediately before the vote.

Such silence does not benefit parents and students of the district.

While state law prohibits the release of a certified agenda or notes from an executive session, trustees are expected to explain or enlarge upon their actions when they take a public vote.

The Open Meetings Act does not preclude any public official from expressing their views on any crucial matter in a public forum.

Burnet resident Sam Willson recently asked the trustees to become more open as they navigate the course for thousands of the district’s parent and students.

Willson’s passion for transparency is to be commended.

BCISD includes a fast-growing population of parents and students faced with several important issues related to curriculum, standardized testing and finance.

Leadership and transparency are needed to ensure BCISD patrons are being served.

As such, the trustees need to let parents know in public what they think on critical issues, including their thoughts that could affect key personnel.

Is it your time to take the lead?

Elections for school district boards and city councils are May 14, which means those interested in running can now file for office.

Filing lasts through March 14. The appropriate paperwork can be found at campus administration offices and city halls.

This is the perfect opportunity for those who believe they can take a leadership role by serving their communities.

There are few callings more noble than public service.

They say if you don’t like the system, go vote. But if you want to help create the system, run for office.

You can make a difference. The choice is yours.