School Committee member scolded for 'bullying'

Feb 2, 2017

School Committee members Geoff Swett and Judy Caporiccio on Wednesday chastised member Mary Morgan for being “disrespectful” of the superintendent and “bullying” her at the committee’s previous meeting.

At that meeting, held on Jan. 18, Morgan congratulated Superintendent Dr. Kimberly Shaver-Hood for being a semi-finalist in Franklin’s search for a new superintendent.

“I’d like to congratulate the superintendent on being chosen out of 52 candidates to be a finalist in Franklin. I think that’s pretty amazing, a good accomplishment,” Morgan said at the time.

Ultimately, Shaver-Hood was not named a finalist after a round of interviews. Swett didn’t speak up on Jan. 18 in response to Morgan, but he did let his feelings known on Wednesday.

“It was disingenuous to say that to the superintendent,” said Swett. “I am happy we didn’t lose this superintendent….I think [Shaver-Hood] has done more for this district than anyone else.”

Swett continued: “We teach our kids to be respectful. That’s part and parcel of what we teach them when they enter this school system.”

Caporiccio also criticized Morgan, saying disagreement among members has cast a shadow on the committee.

“I too was appalled at the behavior…I’ve been appalled for six months,” said Caporiccio. “It’s been noted by educators in other parts of the state."

Caporiccio went on to say Morgan's actions could be described as "bullying" and "character assassination.”

Morgan did not respond to Swett and Caporiccio’s comments.

Swett brought the matter up early in Wednesday’s meeting, saying he was reminded of Morgan’s remarks while reviewing the previous meeting’s minutes.