Saturday, April 29, 2017

[Santa Barbara County] Grand Jury settles allegations against Santa Maria High School

Jury releases results of investigation


SANTA MARIA, Calif. - The Santa Barbara County Grand Jury has released the findings in their investigation into allegations of mismanagement of about $16 million dollars from a state grant by Santa Maria High School.
The Grand Jury determined that the funds from the Quality Education Investment Act state grant were spent properly.
The Grand Jury also took a look at other allegations that included: Communication conflicts between the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District, site administrators, and teachers; concerns regarding school safety; and on the implementation of anti-bullying procedures as required by law.
The report says there was a strained relationship between teachers and school leadership that was created as a result of union contract changes, introduction to the Common Core curriculum, and other schedule and procedural changes implemented by the school district and Santa Maria High School Principal.
The report, however, states that the relationship between educators and school leadership are improving.
Santa Maria Joint Union High School District Superintendent Dr. Mark Richardson issued the following statement:
"We commend the grand jury on their accurate evaluation of Santa Maria High School. We are excited about what the future holds for our students and are dedicated to engaging all stakeholders in the process of ongoing improvement focused on what's best for kids."
April 26, 2017
KEYT
By Oscar Flores


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