Local News
Keys board tables coach’s contract issue
Disappointed faces and sighs filled the already full library at Keys High School Monday night.
A special board of education meeting was called in response to the firing of teacher and coach Lisa Burton.
According to Lindsey Henry, Keys graduate of 2005 and former player for Burton, the Keys coach found out about her dismissal as she and the 2009-’10 girls basketball team was getting ready for camp. “It’s not fair,” Henry said. “Coach Burton is an awesome teacher and coach.”
Henry was not the only one outraged. More than 25 people showed up in support of Burton, appealing to the school board for reconsideration of their action.
Parent and resident Kip Slack addressed the board.
“Teachers shouldn’t fear losing their jobs because an unhappy parent calls the school board to complain,” he said. “We have all seen this go on in other areas, and now they can’t get good teachers or coaches.”
Slack suggested a system where complaints could be heard fairly by the administration, rather than going to a school board member at home.
“If we could get it documented, and go through a chain of command or inquiry it would take pressure off board members,” he said. “If there is something like that we should consider using it and if not we need one.”
The board returned to open session, tabling any further discussion or vote about the high school coaching duties and contracts.
Tracy McMullen, Keys High School teacher, said she is shocked and upset by the dismissal of Burton.
“It’s a scary situation for the school board to be making all the discussions,” she said.What’s next
The next regular Keys School Board meeting will be at 7:30 p.m., Monday, July 6, in the high school library.
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