As the former chair of the Newark Public Schools Advisory Board and, more importantly, the father of two Newark school children, I am troubled by Superintendent Cami Anderson's decision this week to not attend the scheduled Newark Public Schools Advisory Board meeting and her conclusion to overturn the longstanding "first in, last out" rules governing teacher layoffs. These actions are yet more examples of the blatant disrespect Ms. Anderson exhibits towards our citizens.

Time and again, Superintendent Anderson has chosen to do things all by herself, trying to force change through without partners and collaboration. It is obvious best practice to keep good teachers in front of every student. The citizens of Newark must have a seat at the table in the decision-making process. It can't be done unilaterally behind closed doors and away from public scrutiny.

Superintendent Anderson's continued lack of engagement with parents and stakeholders that only want the best for their children is a major obstacle to constructive, results-oriented dialogue. I continue to implore the superintendent to respect the concerns of all our citizens enough to be present to hear and engage them at public meetings.