Commentary by Frank Schroth
[NOTE: Last night at the close of the School Committee meeting (after this was originally posted) when the chairman asked about old business, Mr. Huban spoke. He recounted the event of his January 1rst arrest and the subsequent actions and meetings he has had and will have regarding that.
And then he had this to say; “I am truly sorry . . . and I am working to make myself a better person.” And with those heartfelt words Mr. Huban gave another teachable moment. He taught that one can be humble and courageous in the face of personal adversity. He set a good example and taught an important lesson.]
No one wanted to talk about it. But they did.
At their 01/12 meeting on January 12th, the School Committee addressed the recent event in which one of their members, Chris Huban, was arrested for driving under the influence. It was Ms. Kelly who put the issue on table. It was Mr.Lovely who cut through the awkward ambiguity of third person references to the individual sitting to his left, “We are talking about Chris.”
Ms. Kelly stated her opinion that Huban should resign, because he sets an example for the town and the students in particular. Mr. Lovely said he would not support any censure. He cited Mr. Huban’s courage in admitting to the charges and felt the matter is a personal one. Sheridan and Pavlicek agreed with Lovely. Ms. Bagley-Jones was more critical, but did not expressly ask for Mr.Huban to resign. Mr. Huban was silent during the discussion.
All seemed to agree on one point; it was a “teachable moment.” The question is: what was the lesson taught?
There is a lesson to be learned regarding standards of behavior and consequences for your actions. Some people feel there is a double standard. Mr. Huban continues to sit on the school committee, whereas a student athlete might be thrown off his or her team for the same infraction. Likewise a staff member found guilty of such an offense would face stiff sanctions and possible loss of employment. My son was fortunate to play on a varsity team, and his coach was clear that if you get caught drinking you are off the team. Drinking would risk a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, spoiling senior year. And the consequences to Mr. Huban? They are mild by comparison. As a result of his arrest, he pays $65 a month and can drive only between the hours of 8:00 AM and 8:00 PM. (Note: Initially his license was revoked. Mr. Huban pleaded personal hardship and was granted partial driving privileges. This is not uncommon.)
Mr. Huban’s consequences may seem unfair and unjust, but there is no double standard. Students are underage and must adhere to the rules determined by the administration for their education and safety. Faculty and staff are salaried employees of a teaching institution and must abide by the code of conduct established by that institution. Huban is elected by the people of Milton, and he is answerable to them. He is not paid; there is no code of conduct for elected officials. He serves at the pleasure of the public who elect him and any censure or consequences will come at the polls when Mr. Huban is up for re-election in 2011. These are not double standards; they are different standards.
What does the response of the school committee teach us? Although there were two different points of view, perhaps they are also similar in one way: they teach us that silence on this is not an option. Ms. Kelly should be commended for raising the issue. Alcohol is a problem and underage drinking is a serious issue. Lovely’s expression of support and compassion for a colleague who had stumbled was equally honest.
Lastly, there is the lesson of personal responsibility. Mr. Huban did not run or hide from his transgression. He admitted to it and has accepted the legal and personal consequences that such an incident brings. But this is not just about him. And to sit in silence and wait for the storm to pass does not acknowledge the burden placed on those with whom he works at his elected task: the School Committee and the School Administration. And the kids. It is disappointing that a public statement, as difficult as that might be to make, has not been forthcoming. It isn’t too late.