As a former board member who participated in hiring Scott Drue, I felt devasted listening to Jackie Olsen, OASBO executive director, explain to the current board about the overspending of this district, leading to a[n estimated] $9.9 million shortfall in the Silver Falls School District.
After his second year in the school district, my concerns grew as I saw Scott change. I do not know what triggered this, but the once “no surprises” and transparency of the now-resigned superintendent slowly eroded.
I began to notice that his behavior limited my ability to have a conversation with him. When challenged, he became angry and inflated. I also saw [a] systematic effort to isolate and pit people against each other.
There were complaints from teachers about assessments and ED EX, which fell on deaf ears.
More painful was watching a well-respected music teacher be removed from the district. What a low and painful moment.
Another damning fact was the superintendent renting a property from a board member. How can a board member adequately deny a close relationship when they are financially benefiting and then [are] expected to evaluate the [board’s] sole employee?
I do not understand how the board continued to compliment a person who has led us into devastating debt.
The board continued to consent to the former superintendent’s requests. Where were the senior board members’ sharp eyes? How does “no surprises” look now?
Superintendents must be held to a higher professional standard than I witnessed.
Policy and rules were needed to stop the mismanagement in our district. Yes, this too shall pass, but not [until] after eliminating employee jobs and services at the expense of the students.
You should write letters to: Oregon Department of Education, 255 Capitol St. NE, Salem, OR 97310.
Lori McLaughlin, Silverton
