Although the work sessions are open to the public, Francis’ decision drew criticism from open-government advocates who were concerned with transparency; Francis said he made the decision because he though remarks during such sessions had been taken out of context.

Now, if and when such transgressions occur, Francis and the school board will again be able to point them out on videos that will be professionally shot and edited at the county Education Center in Clyde, just as the regular meetings have been for several years.

Below is a statement from Francis. Look for more detailed coverage of this issue in next week’s Smoky Mountain News, available on newsstands Aug. 24.

“I have listened to the public. My initial decision to stop videotaping the Haywood County Board of Education work sessions was a mistake.  For that I apologize and accept responsibility for a poor decision. After my decision, I heard many folks were concerned about the transparency of our board and the many reasons that we should continue the videos. I did seek advice from close friends and prayed about my decision.

The answer was simple but I felt my reasons were good at the time but proved to be wrong. I can assure you that I will continue to work hard for every child in our school system and admit it when I have made a poor decision. Starting with our next work session which is September 8th, I have asked our staff to professionally videotape our work sessions at the Education Center in Clyde. That is also where our regular monthly meetings are held and videotaped. 

I have heard you and these are your meetings. Please attend if possible and if you can’t, we got it covered…just watch the video.”