SOUTH PARIS (WGME) - The controversial superintendent of Oxford Hills schools, Monica Henson, has been put on paid administrative leave while allegations of her assaulting a child are investigated. Oxford Hills School District 232 Main Street South Paris, ME 04281 Phone: 207-743-8972 Fax: (207) 743-2878 NO CONFIDENCE | thats what the teachers union in MSAD 17 says about its superintendent #NEWSCENTERmaine pic.twitter.com/uzLRdRSuHS. Heather Manchester, chief curriculum officer for the Oxford Hills School District in Paris, addresses the board of directors in July 2020. There are concerns that staff just feel like when they try to express something, it just gets dismissed. "THE BIGGEST CONCERN IS THAT THERE'S AN ACCUSATI ON OF PHYSICAL CONTACT AND VERBAL INTIMIDATION TO STUDENTS. Please note the display name will appear on screen when you participate. Waterbury superintendent defends use of school resource officer One parent told the Advertiser Democrat that Clarke resigned after taking concerns to the board about a day when Henson acted as the substitute principal at the school when she had a medical appointment. 2023, Hearst Television Inc. on behalf of WMTW-TV. The Oxford Hills Scholarship Foundation was established in 1998 and has benefited from Three donations of $1,000,000 each from Robert and Sandra Bahre. Oxford Hills School District MSAD #17 | Paris ME Superintendent of Schools. AND AS FAR AS WE'RE AWARE, THERE'S BEEN NO INVESTIGATION ON THAT. PARIS, Maine No confidence. Oxford Hills school school to pay former superintendent $174K - WMTW Saatva Mattress Review: Our Pick for the Best Overall Bed of 2023, We Found 12 Cute Planters and Flower Pots That Cost Less Than $25, Here's Where to Watch and Stream Marvel's 'Ant Man and the Wasp: Quantumania' Online. On Jan. 19, directors instructed district Chief Child Services Officer Jan Neureuther to report the incident to DHHS. Copyright 2022 WABI. Superintendent Dr. Monica Henson has been accused of assaulting a student at Agnes Gray Elementary School. Please check your email to confirm and complete your registration. Boyd said his groups goal regarding grievances is to resolve them well before it gets to an official process, and has successfully avoided it in the recent past. Related Articles Henson had been on paid leave since January over allegations she pulled an elementary student by their arms in September. "We take those accusations very seriously," Jordan added. All rights reserved. Maine Superintendent Accused of Restraining Child Resigns - US News The reaction of the childs parents contrasts with Dr. Hensons statement last week defending herself against the list of complaints given to the board against her. And theres some concern about how chain of command is being portrayed in how it should be used, and then how it is being used. She's not the only one who said they're having trouble with the district and Henson. Maine news, sports, politics, election results, and obituaries. Oxford Hills Education Association president Jen Jordan told WMTW News 8 that the complaints stemmed from a private vote amongst the association's members where 95% of the members said they have no confidence in Dr. Henson's leadership. Parents are still concerned. 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So there are a lot of valid things that staff are concerned about. I told the board that they should be ashamed of themselves that they had this reported by three different people, and they pushed it under the rug until the media got involved.. Jeni, I am going to have to stop you there, Andrews said. All rights reserved. Oxford Hills Education Association president Jen Jordan told WMTW News 8 that the complaints stemmed from a private vote amongst the associations members where 95% of the members said they have no confidence in Dr. Hensons leadership. Clarke had noted in her letter that Henson forbid her from having contact with any of the students Henson had disciplined while at the school. On Monday . This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Interviews with the five candidates for superintendent of the Oxford Community Schools will be held this week at three special Board of Education meetings that are open to the public. "The biggest concern is that there's an accusation of physical contact and verbal intimidation of students," Jordan said. PARIS, Maine ( WMTW) First-year Oxford Hills Superintendent Monica Henson received criticism at a school board meeting Monday night for allegedly grabbing an elementary student by two arms in. Oxford Hills also agreed to pay $5,500 for her lawyer fees. One West Paris resident later told the Advertiser Democrat that Puiia fears for her job. This profile is in addition to your subscription and website login. Large Majority of Maine Voters Oppose Secret Gender Transitions at Don't have a commenting profile? Henson was placed on paid . Saatva Mattress Review: Our Pick for the Best Overall Bed of 2023, We Found 12 Cute Planters and Flower Pots That Cost Less Than $25, Here's Where to Watch and Stream Marvel's 'Ant Man and the Wasp: Quantumania' Online. Maine school to pay former superintendent $174K, according to resignation agreement, CLARKE JOINS US LIVE IN STUDIO TO EXPLAIN THE CONDITIONS OF THAT AGREEMENT. "Im unaware of any other school system in the state where a teachers union is asked to participate directly in the evaluation of the superintendent of schools," Dr. Henson wrote. In addition to teachers and ed techs . She gave no reason for removing him from his coaching job. They don't represent the majority of the community," Henson said. Anyone can access the link you share with no account required. Educators at the school say the Oxford County Sheriffs Office was there Tuesday conducting interviews about the incident. I am extremely angry, Rowe told WMTW News 8. "And as far as we're aware, there's been no investigation on that, and that's very concerning to us. "And the OHEA has neglected to take advantage of that opportunity and instead try to hijack the public narrative with a collection of falsehoods and vague expressions of 'concern' that is easily disprovable. PARIS, Maine (WMTW) - Oxford Hills Superintendent Dr. Monica Henson has been placed on paid administrative leave pending an investigation by the district board of directors into a September. The Oxford Hills Teachers Union held its regular meeting on January 11 where a record number of people attended to participate in the vote. The full list of the OHEA's complaints can be found here. Alexa Baumgardner and Tobi Worden spoke in defense of coach and Oxford Hills Comprehensive High School teacher Riley Chickering, both fighting back tears at times as they spoke of their sons pain at losing their mentor with no explanation. Crime and Public Safety | WEST PARIS, Maine An investigation into allegations against the Oxford Hills superintendent has been opened by the Oxford County Sheriffs Office and the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, according to the Maine Education Association. "It's a . We want our students and our staff safe. A school superintendent accused of improperly restraining a student at an elementary school last year has resigned. Investigations open into Oxford Hills superintendent accused of That review recently came to an end. There have been zero grievances lodged against me with the Board for any contract violations. Henson is accused of grabbing a student by the arm and pulling him into an office while she was filling in as principal at Agnes Gray Elementary in September. Parents and staff are concerned about Superintendent Monica Henson, who has been in the role since July 2021. Months ago Oxford Superintendent Tim Throne announced his retirement that was due to happen in January. Oxford Hills superintendent on paid leave following student assault Anyone can access the link you share with no account required. I am beyond frustrated and so overwhelmed that they would even make that claim against her, said Grey teacher Rebekah Arntsen. Oxford Hills School District directors listen Monday night to Eric Bennett about his. Use the form below to reset your password. Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. THE AGREEMENT ALSO BARS THE DISTRICT AND HENSON FROM TALKING ABOUT THIS PUBLIC. However, when Puiia attempted to address the board she was told by Andrews that specific details could not be shared publicly at that time. ACCORDING TO THE RESIGNATION AGREEMENT WE OBTAINED.. HENSON AGREES THAT SHE WILL COOPERATE AND MAKE HERSELF AVAILABLE SHOULD ANY LEGAL CLAIM BE FILED AGAINST THE DISTRI. face shields may be an alternative for those students with documented medical or behavioral challenges who are unable to wear masks. Already registered? OVER 90% OF TEACHERS UNION MEMBERS GAVE HER A VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE IN A PRIVATE VOTE, THE RESULTS OF WHICH THEY BROUGHT TO THE DISTRICT'S BOARD OF DIRECTORS LAST NIGHT. Hi, to comment on stories you must create a commenting profile. Heres why. I will not stand for it and I believe most of the people here will join me we will form what we need to in terms of public oversight to ensure that our children, our students and our teachers are safe, respected and given the oversight they deserve, especially those with special needs.. NORWAY, Maine The superintendent of the Oxford Hills school district was accused Tuesday night of creating a culture of fear and intimidation amongst students and teachers alike in her. The agreement was presented to Henson and she resigned on Monday. School Resource police officers from the district were at the Tuesday Board of Directors meeting. Once youve said that we have to follow our grievance procedure. The timeline calls for finalists interviews on Feb. 16 and 17 with a selection of a new superintendent set for March 4. Stay informed daily on the latest news and advice on COVID-19 from the editors at U.S. News & World Report. The Oxford Hills School District has agreed to pay their former superintendent Monica Henson $174,500.The copy of the resignation agreement says they will pay Henson in return for her resignation and promise to file no claims against the district. She was. On Thursday a meeting will be held to narrow the list of five to two or three finalists. Id like to take a moment to clarify. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code. Enter your email and password to access comments. Dozens of people fill the Oxford Hills School District board room Tuesday night in Paris where some expressed serious concerns about Superintendent Monica Hensons leadership in her first six months on the job. Heather was the person that came to everyones mind for that, as well as having the credentials. South Paris ME, 04281. Letter from Superintendent - August 27, 2021 "Every time he smiles, and I see the hole in his face, I'm reminded that the oversight in this district isn't where it needs to be," said Aranka Matolcsy of her 10-year-old son. Henson said at the time she used a limited restraint technique for a disruptive student. The superintendent of the Oxford Hills school district was accused Tuesday night of creating a culture of fear and intimidation amongst students and teachers alike in her first year on the job.27 complaints were levied against Dr. Monica Henson, including an allegation that she aggressively touched a distressed elementary school student in September, while filling in as principal, after an incident involving that student. Hebron Station School Principal Donald Thorne was chosen for the former and accountant Carrie Colley for the latter. The complaints were brought to the school board in a meeting Tuesday.Oxford Hills Education Association president Jen Jordan told WMTW News 8 that the complaints stemmed from a private vote amongst the association's members where 95% of the members said they have no confidence in Dr. Henson's leadership. Morgan got her local legislator and the Maine Department of education involved, and her granddaughter was allowed back in school the following week with a facemask after a note from her doctor. "Im unaware of any other school system in the state where a teachers union is asked to participate directly in the evaluation of the superintendent of schools," Dr. Henson wrote. 5, 2022 at 3:20 AM PDT. Create one. Jordan said that there were a number of teachers, administrators, and students who witnessed this alleged interaction. "And the OHEA has neglected to take advantage of that opportunity and instead try to hijack the public narrative with a collection of falsehoods and vague expressions of 'concern' that is easily disprovable.". First-year Oxford Hills Superintendent Monica Henson received criticism at a school board meeting Monday night for allegedly grabbing an elementary student by two arms in September, along with . Addressing the situation with Chickering, Henson wrote in her statement that while she had removed a stipended coaching assignment from the teacher she had not not terminated him. "The parent did not object to my handling of the incident, communicated with me for the next couple of days, and has filed no complaints with the Board or expressed any further concern since the notification from me," Dr. Henson wrote. 27 complaints were levied against Dr. Monica Henson, including an allegation that she aggressively touched a distressed elementary school student in September, while filling in as principal, after an incident involving that student. Tentatively board action to hire the new superintendent will happen March 14, with March 28 tentatively set for the first day of work. Pleasant's McGuirk Arena, Michigan State Police: Man dies by suicide after several-hour standoff with police, Residents object to proposed I-75 ramp removal, Rochester ekes out narrow win over Adams, Stoney Creek to claim first cheer title since 2017, Storm could bring 6-10 inches of heavy snow, Judge: Oxford school employees shielded from lawsuit alleging negligence ahead of deadly mass shooting, Not again. Oxford Hills School District will be a bully-free zone, effective immediately. The copy of the resignation agreement says they will pay Henson in return for her resignation and promise to file no claims against the district. Oxford Hills Scholarship Foundation | MSAD 17 Contributed. The 22-member board represents the towns of Harrison, Hebron, Norway, Otisfield, Oxford, Paris, Waterford and West Paris. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. We have had no issues with bullying, Arntsen said. In a statement where she forcefully denied the accusations against her, Dr. Henson asked why the teachers had not gone to the board before Tuesday. While neither woman was allowed to refer to specific situations affecting their children during the meeting, Matolcsy had previously written on social media that she had been given two different reasons for her childs injury by different staff members and was denied a request for a third-party service provider to observe her child in his classroom environment, a practice that had been allowed in the past. 27 . There are concerns that staff just feel like when they try to express something, it just gets dismissed. She has instituted a number of options I will be glad to share with the board in private session.. That includes the resignation agreement where the district said it would pay Henson $174,500. Oxford Hills Superintendent under fire at school board meeting, Monica Henson is accused of forcefully grabbing an elementary school student by both arms in September, Two women missing from Topsham area found safe in East Hancock, Weekend snowfall means business at Hermon Mountain Ski Area, Authorities searching for missing Greene man, Last round of snow moves in for today, sunshine returns on Sunday. Credit: CBS 13/WGME. Heres why. The parent, Aranka Matolcsy of South Paris, made a plea to directors to listen carefully to all the statements over the course of the meeting and to take them very seriously. "We take those accusations very seriously," Jordan added. West Bloomfield man sentenced to 65-year prison term in Indiana The principal of Agnes Grey Elementary at the time, Beth Clarke, resigned in December after having been placed on administrative leave in September, and wrote a public letter outlining grievances against Henson. It's 'Read Across America' week in Oxford Hills It should not be allowed at all. Andrews said the executive session would be on the next meetings agenda. Henson provided a lengthy written statement early Wednesday to the Advertiser Democrat, noting that a no-confidence vote is a sign that an administrator is doing the work they were hired to do. Oxford Hills superintendent accused of creating culture of fear and When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code. Those records are also confidential, and the department did not wish to comment on the matter. AS YOU SAID.. AND THAT'S VERY CONCERNING TO US. On Monday, they unanimously appointed her acting superintendent. It seems the superintendent doesnt understand what the grievance procedure is used for, which (is limited to) contractual disputes.. ? A phone number could not be located for Henson, and she didn't immediately respond to electronic messages. In all of my years here I have never seen the culture of the district soured in just six months. Staff | MSAD 17 Enter your email and password to access comments. Oxford Hills School Board accepts superintendent's resignation Much of the anger was rooted in the resignation of Agnes Gray Elementary Schools longtime principal , Beth Clarke, late last year. Oxford Hills Superintendent Monica Henson instituted the bounty program, hoping to address what she called a "bullying culture" in the district, especially in the middle and high schools. Create a commenting profile by providing an email address, password and display name. She said educators have expressed concern about the superintendent taking and posting pictures of students and staff on her personal social media accounts without their consent. We want our students and our staff safe. AND AGN,O TAI OUR TO OUR KNOWLEDGE, NONE OF THEM HAVE BEEN ASKED OR QUESTIONED" "I'M UNAWARE OF ANY OTHER SCHOOL SYSTEM IN THE STATE WHE ERA TEACHERS' UNION IS ASKED TO PARTICIPATE DIRECTLY IN THE EVALUATION OF THE SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS. Learn more. Oxford Hills School Board Temporarily Blocks Gender Schools Details: WebThe policy fight in the Oxford Hills School System is playing out in every Maine school district, as activists both on the Maine Department of Education payroll and at non-profit partner organizations oxford hills superintendent office Verified 6 days ago On Monday, Jan. 31, interviews will be with John Bernia, Chief Academic Officer, Warren Consolidated Schools; and Ken Weaver, Deputy Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction, Oxford Community Schools. All this uproar from the Oxford Hills Education Association is puzzling, given that they have made no previous expression of concern to the School Board using the channels that are available to any staff, Henson wrote. The agreement also bars the district and Henson from talking about the situation publicly. Dr. Monica Henson forcefully denied all 27 complaints levied against her at a district board meeting. HARTFORD - Waterbury schools Superintendent Verna Ruffin defended having school resource officers in city schools before state legislators . The Oxford Hills School District. Here we are four months later and her rights are still being trampled on.. Oxford Hills school board names Heather Manchester as acting superintendent The chief curriculum officer is the unanimous choice to lead while Monica Henson is on paid administrative leave.. The Oxford Hills School Board voted on Monday evening to accept the resignation of Superintendent Dr. Monica Henson, officials say. Henson, who was hired in July 2021, is under investigation by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services and the Oxford County Sheriffs Office after allegations that she improperly physically restrained a child at Agnes Gray Elementary School in West Paris last September. "There's a lot of fear of job termination, there's a lot of feeling like we're being watched, that somebody is just waiting for us to mess up so we can be reprimanded. The position was eliminated and the district split the duties between a chief operating officer to oversee technology, facilities, athletics and transportation, and a chief financial officer to lead the business office. The student fell while she pulled him into an office, and the superintended fell on top of the student and used a restraint technique. "There are some vocal constituencies, but I don't think they represent the majority of the staff. WE HAD MULTIP ELEYEWITNESSES TO THE INCIDENT. Oxford Hills School Board Meeting - Schoolslearning.info You will receive an email to complete the registration. Don't have a commenting profile? (function() { var scribd = document.createElement("script"); scribd.type = "text/javascript"; scribd.async = true; scribd.src = "https://www.scribd.com/javascripts/embed_code/inject.js"; var s = document.getElementsByTagName("script")[0]; s.parentNode.insertBefore(scribd, s); })(); The list also included that employees are concerned with the superintendents use of professional time, of statements she has made to local and national media, and of inappropriate tone and intimidating language expressed in emails to employees. Henson also claimed that the school did not have a code of conduct in its student handbook. The official Facebook Page of the fifth-largest school district in Maine. You can share 5 more gift articles this month.
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