Waterbury Board of Education overrides mayor’s veto on superintendent’s contract

WATERBURY, Conn. (WTNH) — The Waterbury Board of Education faced an important decision regarding Superintendent Dr. Verna Ruffin’s tenure.

After Mayor Paul Pernerewski vetoed a proposed three-year contract extension, advocating for a one-year extension instead, the board voted to override his veto.

“Serious issues with communication problems between the superintendent and teachers and administrators,” said Pernerewski. “The scores are not where they need to be. The communication is not where it needs to be, and we are going to start making sure we are getting to where we need to be.”

During a public comment session, parents and students voiced differing opinions.

“She attends every single event students run or are participating in. I felt like it was worth voicing especially since she is a role model for all of us,” said Lucien Taylor, Kennedy High School senior.

Some words even raised tensions during the meeting.

The board meeting then attempted to decipher the charter language and legalities of if the motion to override the mayor’s veto actually carries, and if the mayor now has to negotiate a three-year contract with Ruffin.

Pernerewski announced plans to consult with lawyers to understand his next steps.

“We’ll figure out what this means because I don’t think the board knows exactly what they voted on,” said Pernerewski.

Ruffin responded to concerns, pledging to address communication issues and appreciating the board’s support.

“I’m going to make certain that all of the communication issues people are talking about that they describe it to me so that I know what exactly they mean by communication,” said Ruffin
“Very touched by the commitment of the board, and the value that they see.”

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