On Oct. 25, the Unionville-Chadds Ford School District issued the following e-mail message to the Chester County Press regarding the resignation of school board member Holly Manzone: ........ It is most unfortunate that Holly Manzone chose to resign, especially so close to the end of her term. The administration and Board want to thank her for her service and wish her well. Holly Manzone’s departure letter made serious allegations that must be addressed. Board meetings are always posted and open to the public. We welcome comments and comply with laws and policies regarding open records. Members are careful not to assemble in groups of more than four unless it’s open, announced and “official business.” Executive session meetings are held only when they comply with state law. The responsibility of School Board members to carry out their work in a forthright and ethical manner is important to each member and the entire Board as a whole. School Board members are bound by an Oath of Office in which they swear to uphold the duties of their office with fidelity. Board members are guided by personal integrity as well as legal ethical standards. Much has been made over the issue of parents sending children to our schools while living outside of the district. The Superintendent and Board members all agree that this should not be tolerated. Every case brought to the district’s attention is investigated. In fact, numerous cases have been investigated over the past three years. Some have resulted in the removal of students, others have been unfounded and still others are ongoing. The reason the district cannot divulge detailed information about every investigation is because of the laws of confidentiality, not because the district is hiding anything. Confidentiality laws protect these individuals and are closely adhered to by the Board and administration. UCFSD is always scrupulous in ensuring that children are never made subjects for possible harassment or even danger, and therefore never provides family names or addresses publicly. What can be confirmed is that no “deals” have been made. The district follows state law and Board policy on residency matters. Dr. Sanville has regularly updated the Board and has assured us that no deals have been made, and we have complete confidence in his integrity and trustworthiness in this and all other matters. Some situations are very complex and difficult to prove because it takes more than casual observation and an address to determine residency. For example, under certain circumstances Pennsylvania law allows a family with children enrolled in UCFSD schools to have homes both within and outside the district. In these complex situations the district seeks guidance from legal counsel to stay on the right side of the law. In the meantime we want to assure every member of the community and the media, that the School Board and UCFSD administration are conducting business openly, honestly, and with the care that our students and schools deserve. On Monday, Oct. 28, 2013 at 7:00 p.m. there will be a special meeting of the Board to accept Holly Manzones resignation from the Board. During the meeting there will be time for public comment. All are welcome to attend.
Posted on: Fri, 25 Oct 2013 17:49:10 +0000
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