Superintendent Apologizes To Teachers
by Barbara Leader - News Star (excerpt)

An e-mail apology from Superintendent James Dupree to "colleagues" in the Monroe City School system has hit many teachers as "too little, too late."

The e-mail arrived in employee mailboxes early Saturday while teachers exchanged telephone calls discussing a possible strike.

"I want you to realize how much I respect and value you as a colleague and professional," the e-mail said. "When I saw you at Carroll High School, I realized how much the last five months have affected us all."

On Friday, Dupree spoke about his intentions in the rally. He said he wanted to tell employees they were either the system's best or worst public relations tool, but they misunderstood his intention.

Teachers said they became offended when Dupree told them if they could not be positive, none of them needed to receive a paycheck from the district.

"If I said anything that offended you, please accept my sincere apology," Saturday's e-mail said. "It is always my intent to pump us up. I can say that my opening remarks may not have accomplished the intent for everyone."

Dupree did not respond to telephone messages from The News-Star requesting confirmation that the e-mail was from him, but the e-mail address appeared genuine.