The Cairo-Durham Central School District Board of Education held its regular meeting Thurs., Dec. 19, in the middle school cafeteria. Superintendent Mary Fassett addressed the board and the public about the minor bus accident that occurred on Tues., Dec. 17. No one was injured in the incident. Fassett also addressed the rumor the meeting would include a presentation on the controversial grade realignment plan. PLAY (2:35). Also during the meeting, parent and teacher Tracy MacGiffert read a prepared statement expressing her ongoing concerns about the grade realignment plan. MacGiffert describes what she believes to be a substantial negative impact the plan is having on students, teachers, staff, bus drivers, and parents alike. MacGiffert urged the board to engage district teachers as they evaluate the grade realignment to-date; stating it is the teachers' combined centuries of expertise, and first-hand knowledge of what is happening on a daily basis, which will provide the most accurate and valuable means for assessment. PLAY MacGiffert statement (6:35).

-- Galen Joseph-Hunter