Editor, The Smithfield Times:

I have concern as to why the Isle of Wight County School Board members relinquished their duties. Some of the responsibilities are as follows:

• Establish the vision and goals of the school district.
• Hire and evaluate the superintendent.
• Leaders and representatives of the community and as advocates for the students and the school district.
• Implement policies that help improve the work of the district and its schools.

I certainly feel like that collaboration between the superintendent and school board members is necessary. Giving complete control to Dr. James Thornton, superintendent, is not what your constituents elected you to do.

You took an oath and you should uphold the oath. You are the employer, not the employee.

Hazel C. Edwards

Smithfield