October 17, 2006

Dear Parents,

Approximately three weeks ago, it came to my attention that sexually explicit and racist materials were being e-mailed by employees of our district using school equipment. I immediately began an investigation into the matter, and some of the employees involved have now been identified and are under investigation, as we are still gathering more details about this matter.

So far, we have discovered that dozens of inappropriate e-mails were distributed via their district computers in what they have deemed a series of jokes. This administration considers this to be appalling behavior and finds no humor in their actions. Each employee in the Monticello district is made aware of the guidelines for use of school equipment and it bans the use of our equipment to send out harassing, abusive or pornographic material.

In Monticello, we hold our students to a high standard of behavior and without doubt, we do the same for our employees. It is unacceptable for any staff member to be engaged in this or any other kind of inappropriate behavior, and it will not be tolerated.

The Board of Education, our district counsel, school administrators and local police authorities have been made aware of the situation, and as soon as our on-going investigation is complete, we will take swift and forceful action against the offenders. This is a difficult situation that needs to be handled appropriately and fairly. Earlier today, all employees were sent an e-mail reminding them of the district policies on these issues.

As Superintendent, this situation is extremely upsetting to me, and I’m sure your concerns, as parents, are many. Please be assured that whether the employees involved acted intentionally or inadvertently, this will not go unpunished.

I will keep you informed as the details unfold during our on-going investigation.

Sincerely,

Dr. Patrick Michel
Superintendent of Schools     

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