Former school head: Implying that past GSA staff reductions were cavalier is inaccurate

Jan. 6, 2026

To the editor:

I read with surprise the article about GSA’s impending downsizing. I was not surprised that they must do it—enrollment has continued to drop, and the funding formula creates great hardship at any size below 300—but rather at how previous downsizings were characterized. According to the article, the press release said the current layoffs have been “carefully structured to minimize impact on students and educational quality—a key distinction from previous workforce changes.” 

To imply that all past staffing reductions were not done in a way intended to minimize the impact on students, and that every possible consideration wasn’t given to affected staff (also implied in the press release), is deeply disrespectful to every single past administration and prior board of trustees of GSA, as well as being completely inaccurate. When such actions are taken, people are inevitably hurt and distressed. But that does not mean every effort wasn’t made by past administrations and boards, and the union reps consulted, to minimize that hurt. 

People may disagree on the particular decisions made by prior administrations and Boards, but no one can rightly claim that their motives were anything other than to continue to provide the very best experience possible for GSA students, given financial constraints, or that any of them were cavalier about the impact reductions would have on the people who worked so hard for the academy. 

My affection for George Stevens Academy’s history, traditions, and place in the community, and for its current and past students, parents and staff, remains undimmed. But I am saddened and disappointed that this board and administration felt the need to disparage good people who went before them, people who cared at least as deeply about the academy’s students and employees as they do, and who worked just as hard to ensure the academy’s survival as they are. I wish them success in that endeavor.

Tim Seeley, GSA Headmaster 2015 - 2023

Blue Hill

The Rising Tide welcomes letters and opinion pieces from a wide variety of viewpoints. Published pieces do not reflect the editorial stance of The Rising Tide and are not endorsements. To submit a piece to us, email info@risingtide.media. We ask that all submissions be original and exclusive to The Rising Tide.