My first assignment as a newspaper reporter 20 years ago was to cover a school board meeting. The meeting was held at the district's office building in a room specifically designed to hold board meetings and other events. The room included a dais for the school board members, microphones, an overhead projector and screen, and a podium where audience members could address issues.

The room on that night was filled with at least 75 people there to voice their opposition to a board policy. I managed to grab a seat at the back of the room.

Fast forward a few years, well, OK, 20 years, and I'm puzzled why the Hastings School Board doesn't have a similar facility. Their meetings are presently held on Wednesday nights at 6:30 in a conference room at Hastings Middle School. The board members are crowded around a long conference table, and "audience" members are relegated to the side of the room.

The meetings are televised, but the sound quality is poor and the home viewer is often unable to see who is speaking, unless it is one of the board members seated at the front of the room. It's frustrating for those who can't attend in person and want to hear what the board is saying - especially about important issues like spending and curriculum.

This gives the appearance of the district not wanting residents to watch and/or attend these meetings. (I don't think this is the case, however, but the perception is not good).

Here's a solution: Use the Hastings City Council chambers!

--There's a place for the board members to sit so they can be seen by everyone.
--It's not used much of the week, so the board could likely rent it (or use it for free?)
--There are plenty of chairs in the room for audience members.
--It's "made for television" so viewers can see what is going on.
--Each board member has a microphone so we can hear what they are saying. --There's a podium for presentations and audience comments.
--People know where it is - few are really sure exactly where the current meeting site is (there's no indication of its location on the district website).

I'd welcome any comments from the district, or any other individuals who would like to ensure all Hastings residents are well informed about what is happening in their schools and the district administration and budget.