Letter to Superintendent of Schools from Concerned Parents

Here is the letter submitted to Dr. Thomas Chadzutko, Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Brooklyn from concerned parents at Saint Saviour's Elementary School, who are unhappy about the decision not to renew the contract of their longtime and highly respected Principal James Flanagan.

Also attached is his response.

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Dr. Thomas Chadzutko, Ed. D.,
Superintendent of Schools


Dear Dr. Chadzutko:

I am a parent of a Student in Saint Saviour Elementary School. I learned on Monday, May 11th, that Father Murphy is not renewing the contract of our principal, Mr. Flanagan. I have also learned that Father Murphy will not discuss the matter further with the community. As a parent and member of this community I find this situation very odd and questionable.

Not being originally a member of this church, we found St. Saviour when we enrolled my child into St. Saviour elementary and have called it home ever since. I am now forced to question my commitment and the commitment of your board that sanctions this type of behavior. Father Murphy has always stated during his sermons commitment, love and openness. Unfortunately I don’t presently see those qualities exhibited here.

Mr. Flanagan has always and will always be a Pillar and Champion of this school. He is Champion who has committed 25+ years of his life to the well being of St Saviour Elementary, it’s students and the community it fosters. St Saviour is a successful, well run attended school and is better for it through Mr. Flanagan’s leadership and dedication.

Mr. Chadzutko, please intercede for our school and mostly our students and have Mr. Flanagan reinstated as our principal! We appreciate you looking into this matter. Our children deserve the best and to replace Mr. Flanagan would be a detriment to our children and school. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Respectfully,



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Response from Dr. Chadzutko dated May 27, 2009


I wish to acknowledge receipt of your letter dated May 18, 2009 in which you share you concerns regarding Mr. James Flanagan, principal of St. Saviour School

The office of the Superintendent ~ Catholic Schools Support Services has provided guidance to Mr. Flanagan regarding the policies and procedures that he must follow.

Please know that the Office of the Superintendent ~ Catholic School Support Services can only provide guidance to Mr. Flanagan, as the office is not the employer. In this light, we have shared you concerns with Fr. Murphy, pastor of St. Saviour R.C. Church.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts and concerns.

Sincerely,


Thomas Chadzutko, Ed. D.
Superintendent.