To the Editor:
There are people whose character and presence make a difference to a community and Jack Solomon was one of them. His leadership and integrity left a huge imprint on many of us who all share in the sad news of his recent death.
I had the honor of working with Jack on indoor air quality and related health issues at the old Samuel Staples School. Many who are new to Easton are likely unaware of his role in protecting our students and staff from this school’s unhealthy environment. Months of squabbling with the school board and administration resulted in lab testing by NIOSH and NIH.
End result was that their reports concluded that the old SSES was a sick building. The former superintendent was reluctant to take any action. I still vividly recall participating in a meeting with the superintendent and a few others in the chief’s office. A debate ensued on best options when the chief firmly stated, “Either you close this school, or I will.”
Within weeks the old Staples was evacuated; the lower grades were relocated to the Easton Community Center and upper grades to Helen Keller. A new building was constructed, the old Staples renovated and rented to Easton Country Day and our school community remained safe and healed from this disturbing episode.
Jack loved this town and was totally committed to protecting its citizenry, especially the children. I am so grateful for knowing and working with this honorable gentleman and the the valuable lessons learned from him. Jack Solomon represented the finest qualities of law enforcement and his legacy will live on through his family and all who worked with him.
Beverlee Dacey
Easton
