New Bedford Council Questioning Use of Textbook Money

The New Bedford City Council remains concerned over the alleged misuse of $1 million allotted to the school department for textbooks last year. After the Council granted the funds in May of 2012, reports surfaced that the money went to new hires instead of textbooks and other classroom necessities.

At-Large Councilor Brian Gomes says teachers and faculty are being forced to use their own money for essential materials.

Gomes says several teachers and staff members have approached him about the lack of books for students.

The Council is requesting a meeting with school Superintendent Dr. Pia Durkin to discuss reports of textbook shortages among other materials.