Mayor O'Brien

O'Connell takes the chair
"disappointed to hear" Chester's decision
"we are going to be working to address the concerns" of the state
"I personally have tried to express my strong support" for those who work at Goddard
"countless numbers of children...remarkable reputation"
"remarkable progress" over the past few years
believe this year's MCAS scores with reflect great work being done
"how did we get to where we are now?"

"it has been a disturbing time for me as a member of this body"
"what are the facts? ...they're pretty clear here...state exhaustively looked at this issue"
their job to do this...at the end of that process...had three basic choices

1. done nothing
2. significant sanctions
3. "mistakes were made"

"that should have been it"
"we're entering...with some members...a dark and concerning place for me..insert themselves into the role of the state and the superintendent"
"I don't think it's right...does a disservice to those who teach and work in our system"
"People work hard every day...dedicated staff deserve better than what this is about"
"a lesson learned by what this is about..roles of superintendent"