XPost: alt.education, alt.true-crime, pdx.general   
   XPost: or.politics   
   From: pjberg@webtv.net   
      
   July 12, 2007   
       
   Patrons of the VernoniaSchool District:   
       
   When I first learned of the incident with Mr. Miller, I was heartsick --   
   not only out of concern for Mr. Miller and his family, but for the   
   impact this would have on our community. I've met with Mr. Miller to   
   express my disappointment.  What he did was wrong and I do not in any   
   way condone his actions. On the other hand, Mr. Miller is an excellent   
   administrator. He has also been a successful teacher, coach and   
   building principal and works well with students and staff.   
      
   To make the best decision possible, I've spent a great deal of time   
   reviewing District policy and discussing the matter with our attorney   
   and others from both inside and outside our community. Since this is a   
   District personnel issue, its resolution lands squarely on my shoulders   
   and not the School Board. Their only responsibility in hiring and/or   
   dismissing personnel in the District starts and stops with the   
   superintendent. They have hired me to administer district business.   
       
   My ultimate responsibility however, even more than answering to the   
   Board of Directors, is to the safety, welfare, and educational   
   betterment of our students. Whenever I come to a difficult decision I   
   reflect upon this and, after consultation with others, base my decision   
   on what I feel would be best for our children. It is for their   
   long-term benefit that I have decided to retain Mr. Miller in his   
   current position as principal.   
       
   Because this is a personnel matter and in light of our current policy   
   and potential legal implications, I cannot share with you all I would   
   like to -- nor reveal any of the consequences that will take place   
   concerning this matter. However, I can assure you there will be   
   consequences.   
       
   I have been accused of setting a double standard in taking this   
   action. I believe, however, that I have set a higher standard for   
   Vernonia administrators than for other staff members. Mr. Miller will   
   be dealt with in a fashion similar to, but more severe than, that which   
   we deal with students. If a student is caught using drugs they face   
   consequences --  but being summarily expelled from school is not one   
   of them.   
       
   I recognize that my actions and those of Mr. Miller are causing concern   
   in our community. The extent to which this comes true will depend on   
   each community member's ability to support this decision and move   
   forward, making the best we can of a difficult situation.   
       
   Sincerely,   
   Kenneth W. Cox, PhD   
   Superintendent   
      
   --- SoupGate-Win32 v1.05   
    * Origin: you cannot sedate... all the things you hate (1:229/2)