“We are outraged by today’s announcement. It is hard to believe so many adults who have been tasked with educating and improving the lives of children allegedly violated the trust of students and families in such an egregious manner.
When the EAA discovered that one of our former school leaders had abused her power by accepting bribes and “kick-backs” from a vendor, we immediately began cooperating with law enforcement officials. It is now clear that we not only uncovered an internal systematic breach, but potentially, a multi-district corruption scheme.
Subsequent to this discovery, we immediately implemented stronger controls and more stringent surveillance over use of district finances. We also started an ethics hotline for district staff and parents to anonymously report concerns they may have at any time. This type of oversight was essential in rebuilding the trust of our students and parents, while simultaneously sending a strong message that any type of malfeasance will not be tolerated.
More than ever, today’s announcement demonstrates the need for great leaders in education to have both instructional and operational knowledge, as well as the highest level of integrity.
It pains us to know that resources that should have been used for classrooms and much-needed wraparound services were diverted for personal gains.” – Veronica Conforme, Chancellor EAA and Joyce Hayes Giles, Chairwoman EAA Board
About Post Author
