LIBERTY — On April 15, Cindy L. Conklin, a member of the Liberty Central School Board of Education, was arrested and charged with two counts of Criminal Possession of a Controlled Substance in the 7th degree and one count of Criminally Possessing a Hypodermic Instrument, both misdemeanors.

This past Tuesday, Liberty parent Barbara Kelly read a letter during the public comment period of the district's board meeting requesting Conklin's immediate resignation from the Liberty Board of Education.

Kelly said she was representing parents, community members, taxpayers and concerned citizens.

“The Liberty parents expect their board members to uphold the highest of standards,” Kelly read. “The moment we compromise the seriousness of the situation is the same moment we compromise our children.

“We rely on Ms. Conklin's good faith to realize it is in everyone's best interest to resign immediately, affording the board to maintain their integrity and stellar reputation,” Kelly added.

She said the letter garnered more than 140 signatures in the days prior to the meeting, though the meeting itself featured a small public turnout.

Kelly was briefly interrupted at the beginning by board member Philip Olsen, who emphasized commentary on policy rather than speaking directly about an individual during board meetings.

According to the public participation rules outlined in the agenda, the discussion of an individual during a public session is not permitted. Andrew Kavleski, Board of Education president, allowed Kelly to continue, maintaining that the information was not confidential and had already been publicized.

“I think people have strong opinions. The process needs to play out,” Dr. William Silver, Liberty Superintendent, said. “Emotions are high in these kinds of situations, and it is in [Conklin's] ballpark now.”

Because the charges are misdemeanors and she has not been convicted, the school board has no authority to force Conklin's resignation.

While speaking on her cellphone, Conklin quickly left after the meeting adjourned and would not offer any comment.

She is scheduled to return to Liberty Town Court on June 9.