Did Board President Overstep Her Authority?

Did Board President Overstep Her Authority?

On Thursday, August 29, the Windsor Board of Education President Doreen Richardson was quoted in a local newspaper article entitled, “Top School Officials Put on Leave in Windsor”.  According to President Richardson, two top school officials have been placed on administrative leave pending an internal investigation.

Richardson identified the individuals by name and position, and that they were placed on leave as “a normal, professional course of business.”  Richardson further stated, “The only thing I can tell you now is that it’s not related to any issues of dishonesty or anything of that sort.  It’s a performance issue.  It’s a management issue”.  Richardson said she could not estimate how long the investigation was expected to last.  She further stated, “The key is to make sure that the facts are clear and heard.  So we’re prepared to let that take as long as that needs to take.  The jobs of two members of our staff are at risk.”

Concerned Mothers and Fathers are outraged that President Doreen Richardson ignored Board of Education Bylaws 9000, 9010, 9121, 9271, and the Code of Ethics. (Please find information at http://www.policy.cabe.org/windsor/)

President Doreen Richardson had no authority to act as the public spokesperson in a personnel matter.  She chose to have individual authority with the general public and did not exercise care in discussions concerning the employment, performance, evaluation and/or reference to dismissal of personnel.  She does not supervise such employees. Furthermore, President Doreen Richardson did not hold confidential all matters pertaining to the schools, that if disclosed, might needlessly injure individuals or the schools.  Did Superintendent Villar relinquish his authority and grant Richardson oversight on personnel matters to share with the public?  Is President Doreen Richardson practicing legal and ethical behavior?  The Windsor Board of Education should address this matter with the Superintendent and legal counsel.  As always, Concerned Mothers and Fathers look forward to your comments.