Equality of Education at Neville

There was strong debate in a work session held by Monroe City School Board members before their meeting. The U.S. Department of Justice declared the education at Wossman and Carroll un-equal to that at Neville high school. A Consent Decree was issued in April 2008. It required the district to bring Wossman and Carroll up to the same standard as Neville. The board’s discussion was continuation from last months meeting, where board members disagreed on applying those changes to Neville. Board member Vicki Dayton expressed the need to make the same changes at all three schools. But, board members Smith and Handy said they should stick to the Justice Departments recommendations to work on the 2 under-performing schools. Further discussion of the issue was later postponed during the meeting. Dr. Dupree presented documentation to board members outlining disparities--if any--in the schools. After review of that document, board members will determine how to act on the Justice Departments orders. But, the board doesnt have much time. They must respond to the justice department with their actions in just a few weeks.