Charlotte School Leaders Silent on Secret Safety Records
In Charlotte, concerns are mounting as school leaders remain tight-lipped regarding the district’s handling of sensitive student safety records. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) board chairwoman Stephanie Sneed and vice chairman Dee Rankin have yet to address why the district kept these records concealed for several years, despite an ongoing public records lawsuit.
Hidden Safety Records Exposed
A recent ruling by a third-party lawyer, acting as a special master in the lawsuit, revealed troubling information: CMS improperly withheld records related to reported rapes and sexual assaults in their schools. The district’s failure to disclose these records as mandated in the lawsuit raised alarms, particularly regarding statements made under oath by CMS’s general counsel, Andre Mayes, which were deemed unreasonable.
Continued Silence from School Officials
Despite the serious nature of the findings, Sneed and Rankin have chosen to remain silent. At a recent school board meeting, they avoided answering questions from reporters about the district’s decision to keep the safety records a secret. In an attempt to deflect inquiries, Sneed swiftly called the meeting to order before all board members were seated, thereby stifling further questioning.
Rankin initially expressed willingness to discuss the matter in an email sent to a reporter promising, “I have no problem speaking with you,” but later declined to follow through.
District Acknowledges Need to Comply
The CMS legal team did send an email to the reporters involved in the lawsuit, acknowledging their obligation to provide the previously concealed records. CMS attorney Hope Root stated, “Pursuant to the Special Master’s Report, we are gathering, authenticating, and redacting the similar documents.” However, specifics on when this would occur remain vague, with the phrase “as soon as practicable” offering little clarity.
Broader Implications for School Safety
The implications of CMS’s secrecy extend beyond legal ramifications; public trust is at stake. As parents, teachers, and students raise urgent questions about safety measures within the district, the lack of transparency only intensifies concerns.
As the situation unfolds, many will be watching closely to see how CMS responds and what further actions will be taken to ensure that students’ safety is prioritized.
