Parents Decry Delay In Filling ESE Position

SEBRING - Parents criticized Superintendent Wally Cox for his decision, for budgetary reasons, to delay filling the top position in the Exceptional Student Education Department.

Parent Mike Altman told the school board and Cox Tuesday, "We've been waiting for a long time for a change; The kids deserve a change.

"We are here as parents and professionals due to our concern regarding the decision that has been made not to fill the position of ESE coordinator at this time. We have been told the decision for not filling the position at this time is to help the budget."

This is alarming because the opportunity for change is here and this position affects a large population of students and staff, he said.

"We feel that our students served by ESE are as important as the other student population," Altman said. "We do not go without a director of curriculum so how can we go without an ESE coordinator?

A systematic change is needed in the ESE department, but that will not happen with the position being passed down to someone who has been mentored and taught by the previous person who has caused the need for this change, he said.

The longtime head of the ESE department, Connie Tzovarras, resigned/retired this month from working for the school board through a lease agreement.

Rebecca Johnson, who had served as the assistant ESE coordinator, is currently overseeing the department.

Cox said in response that several positions are being left vacant at this time.

"I'm not leaving it vacant for long," and would move on the position in several months, he said.

The school district is facing financial issues due to the economy and a number of steps have been taken that will add up to a significant number of savings for the district, Cox said.

When asked for a more definite time when he will fill the ESE position, Cox replied in the next couple of months.

The position has already been advertised and three qualified candidates who are currently with the school district have responded. But, the board would like a larger pool of candidates, including candidates from outside the district or state, before the selection process starts.

A group of about 15 parents left the board room unsatisfied with the superintendent's response. With representation from Sebring Middle, Sebring High and Fred Wild, Woodlawn and Cracker Trail elementary schools, the parents talked among themselves about the issue.

They believe filling the position without delay is important so a new director will be in place to prepare for the ESE summer program and the 2008-09 school year.

School Board Member Richard Norris said the district should move on filling the position and not wait too long.

School Board Member Donna Howerton said, "I think it is imperative to resolve it."