I would like to express my appreciation to two long-time Bloomfield Board of Education members who are stepping down from the board this year. Tuesday, Oct. 24, was the last public board meeting for both Chairman Donald Harris and member Robert Ike.
Mr. Ike, who is also chairman of Bloomfield’s Republican Town Committee, served on the board for 16 consecutive years and 20 years overall. He is a retired state Department of Transportation manager. Mr. Ike was known as a straight-talking board member, who insisted on “rigor” and accountability in assessing school academic projects.
I have known Mr. Harris for 62 years. He is a dear friend as has served as board chairman since the day I was hired 12 years ago. He is a former chairman Bloomfield’s Democrat Town Committee. Like Mr. Ike, Mr. Harris is also known for his candor and focus on what is best for the school system.
A retired educator, Mr. Harris is also a past president of the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education. He was recently recognized by CABE with its 2022 Philip S. Fenster Distinguished Service Award for lifetime commitment to public education. He is also a former president of the Capital Region Education Council board and a current member of the State Board of Education.
Dr. James Thompson, Jr.
Superintendent, Bloomfield Public Schools