EVERETT PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Everett, Washington
Special Board Meeting
The Board of Directors of Everett School District No. 2, Snohomish County, Washington, held a special Board meeting on Friday, June 27, 2008, at noon, in the Board Room of the Educational Service Center, 4730 Colby Avenue, Everett, Washington. Board members in attendance were Carol Andrews, Kristie Dutton, Karen Madsen and Ed Petersen. Absent: Sue Cooper.
BOARD ACTION AND/OR BOARD DISCUSSION
President Madsen called the special meeting to order at noon. The purpose of the special meeting was to approve the Personnel Report.
SUPERINTENDENT’S COMMENTS
Superintendent Carol Whitehead opened her comments by distributing a multiple-page List of Accomplishments during the 2007-2008 school year (E:246/08). The list was compiled using input from the Leadership Team and is not all-inclusive. Dr. Whitehead reviewed the list.
Next, Dr. Whitehead indicated that today’s Personnel Report includes her retirement from Everett Public Schools as of September 1, 2008. So as not to overlook important items, she read from a prepared script (attached).
ACTION ITEMS
Consent Agenda—Personnel Report
Kristie Dutton moved for approval of the Personnel Report (E:247/08). Carol Andrews seconded the motion and the motion carried unanimously.
BOARD COMMENTS
President Madsen said it has been an honor to have Dr. Whitehead work in Everett. The District has moved forward at a pace that Ms. Madsen would not have imagined possible. A tremendous difference has been made in the lives of many children by setting the standards high, expecting students to meet standard and giving them the support to meet standard. President Madsen said it is profoundly regrettable that the timeline for Dr. Whitehead’s planned retirement was moved up, but Ms. Madsen completely understands Dr. Whitehead’s family’s wish to have her in a safer situation. Ms. Madsen said she is appalled that someone chose to threaten Dr. Whitehead’s life. She expressed her deep affection and respect for Dr. Whitehead and said she will miss her greatly. She thanked Dr. Whitehead for her 18 years with Everett Public Schools.
Board member Petersen said he has been extremely impressed with Dr. Whitehead’s work and she leaves a marvelous legacy. Everett’s is an organization that is dynamic, progressive, team-oriented, high-quality and exhibits best practices. Strong systems are in place, the staff is excellent and the reputation of the District in the state is tremendous. Dr. Whitehead has helped create and led an organization of which we are all proud to be a part.
Board member Dutton said helping hire Dr. Whitehead was the best decision Ms. Dutton ever made. It’s been a joy to work with Carol. Even as the District moves forward, Dr. Whitehead’s legacy will live on. She thanked Carol.
Board member Andrews echoed her colleagues’ feelings. She said she is sorry she did not have an opportunity to work with Dr. Whitehead longer. It has been a fabulous experience; Carol Whitehead is a superb leader and a wonderful person.
President Madsen also commended Dr. Whitehead for the strength and commitment she showed after Dr. Whitehead’s husband (Bob) died in 2001. Carol powered on and stayed with the District and Ms. Madsen is so glad she did.
The Board checked their calendars and agreed to meet again on Monday, June 30, at 8 a.m. for another special Board meeting to discuss next steps for replacing Dr. Whitehead. Dr. Whitehead said proper steps will be taken to announce the special meeting.
Dr. Whitehead said her statement today will be posted on the District website along with comments from the Board. All parents, staff, the media and key communicators will be notified and will be invited to check the website as well.
With no further comments, President Madsen adjourned the special meeting at 12:35 p.m.
____________________________ ___________________________
Carol Whitehead, Secretary Karen Madsen, President
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