• two outside consultants to assist Dr. Borchers
• the salaries of these individuals who were hired to fill open administrative positions.

We must begin by expressing our deep regret for the controversy we created by authorizing the funds for these expenditures. Given the current economic conditions, we understand why these decisions have been questioned.  We are sorry for not being more sensitive to how these decisions could be perceived.

To address these issues, we are using an approach that includes answering these questions:

1. What lessons have we as a Board and district learned?
2. What steps are we taking to prevent these types of situations from occurring in the future?

In answering those questions, here are some specific steps we are taking:

• Require district administrators to be more specific in their descriptions of submitted budget items for the consent agenda and for contracts or purchases over $7500.00
• Work with district attorneys to revise the Board policy that addresses consultant contracts
• Continue to review our process for determining administrators’ salaries

We are committed to being more open and transparent in our decision making.  We know our community expects that from us.

Rockwood is one of the best school districts in the state and the nation; however, we must continue to improve.  Our students will be competing in a highly skilled, global economy of the 21st century, and we must prepare them for this future.

We believe Dr. Borchers has this vision, and we continue to support him as he guides the district. 

This upcoming school year is going to be both exciting and challenging. We appreciate the fact that we are part of a school community where stakeholders are willing to be engaged and hold us to a high level of accountability. 

Sincerely,

The Rockwood School District Board of Education
Steve Smith, Janet Strate, Steve Banton, Peggy Devoy, Matt Doell, Matt Fitzpatrick, Keith Kinder