Amherst Pelham Education Association Condemns Anonymous Critique of Superintendent 

The Amherst Pelham Education Association (APEA) strongly condemns the way in which anonymous criticisms were recently levied against Amherst Regional Public Schools Superintendent Dr. E. Xiomara Herman and her administration as well as the harmful actions taken against one of the district employees by exposing confidential, personal information to the press, some Amherst residents, and the School Committee. The APEA expressed deep concern about the leakage of confidential employee information, which they say undermines the trust and safety of the district community. Such an action, the union affirms, is not only inappropriate but goes against the values of respect, humanity, and professionalism that it espouses as educators.

The APEA affirmed in a press release, “We are educators. We teach students to resolve conflicts through understanding, dialogue, and cooperation. We do not teach them to respond with hate or harm. As adults and professionals, we must strive to be examples for our students, showing them that disagreement does not need to escalate into personal attacks or division. It is appalling that someone within our own community has resorted to these low tactics.”

The APEA further acknowledged that while disagreements with school administrations of the past have occurred, the organization has strived to work through them constructively, with the goal of ensuring the best possible outcomes for members and students. The APEA resolves to continue to engage with the administration to work on differences in a way that promotes the well-being of all.

For more information, contact: Communication Chair Claire Cocco apea@amherstpelhamed.org