Call for an independent SPED audit

I continue to be troubled by strong words coming from of the Harvard school superintendent’s office regarding the brewing SPED budget scandal.

I strongly disagree with Dr. Thomas Jefferson’s failure to produce public records, because public records are public records. Perhaps he could use a little support and guidance from the attorney general’s office?

Jefferson’s written denial is ridiculous, and suggests that he has something to hide. These records relate to a questionable check transaction with former School Committee member Paul Wormser. A recent Harvard Hillside report suggests that Wormser is likely in violation of Massachusetts General Law Chapter 286 for lack of proper disclosure.

Jefferson is only succeeding in casting a larger shadow upon himself and the School Committee. Allowing this matter to fester is causing a crisis in confidence toward our School Committee and superintendent and fuels speculation.

Posturing to protect special-needs students is a simple diversion, and doesn’t instill confidence in the taxpayers who are eager to know that $3 million is being spent fairly and wisely. The idea that a select few enjoy a private education on the public’s dime is the definition of fraud and corruption.

Not a single person in Harvard is out to harm legitimate special-needs students — this is a bogus argument. I implore Jefferson to do the right thing and call for an independent audit, so we can all enjoy a little social justice.

WILLIAM PALLI

Harvard