By Cindy Kranz
The Cincinnati Enquirer

NORWOOD - A Norwood school board member apologized Thursday for a "disparaging" remark he made in an executive session earlier this month, but angered some residents when he didn't resign.

Rick Guy told about 100 Norwood residents that a comment he made was overheard by some residents standing outside the meeting room.

"My comment was a negative, disparaging portrayal of a segment of Norwood's population, and it was thoughtless and insensitive. I am truly sorry for that remark. It was unnecessary and unprofessional," said Guy, a board member first elected in 1999.

"I love Norwood and its school system, and I want the best for it. I was elected to do a job, and I will do so with the utmost integrity and respect for all Norwood citizens."

Some residents yelled, "Unacceptable!" and "You need to leave!" when Guy ended his statement.

Earlier in the meeting, 11 residents pummeled the school board and administrators with questions and criticisms about Guy's remark, communications with residents and how the district of 2,700 students spends its money. Many of those issues were raised in a WCPO I-Team investigation this week.

Lynn Ellis, an Allison Elementary parent, said that on Feb. 10, a board member made a cruel and unjust remark.

"This member called Allison district citizens 'inbred idiots.' This remark was slander and not befitting an elected board member. ...

"Speaking for myself, I think you all should resign," she said, adding that, over the years, she's watched the board rubber-stamp purchase orders, resolutions, and hiring and firing of employees without any discussion or questions.

Tiffany Sorrell, a Norwood resident, said she is frustrated by the spending that does not directly benefit children, especially the purchase of a building to house lawn mowers.

"Correct me if I'm wrong, but to my knowledge, lawnmowers don't teach children how to read ... With our low test scores, low graduation rate and low reading levels, I cannot fathom why your interests lie in administrative issues rather than academics."

Superintendent Steve Collier read a statement responding to questions raised during the I-Team report and by citizens. "I stand behind the district's expenditures and would ask that the public look at the facts."

The highlights of Collier's report will be available in the school treasurer's office at noon today and on the district Web site.

E-mail ckranz@enquirer.com