Teachers Give Superintendent, Board VP Deadline For Apology
by Barbara Leader - News Star (excerpt)

The Monroe Federation of Teachers is giving Monroe City Schools superintendent James Dupree and board Vice President Brenda Shelling one last chance to avoid legal action against the district.

The group is making its second request for an apology for comments Dupree and Shelling made at a back-to-school rally in late August. Many employees felt the comments were insulting and degrading.

Monroe Federation of Teachers President Sandie Lollie said if Shelling and Dupree do not apologize publicly in the next scheduled board meeting, which will be on Sept. 16, the group will begin legal proceedings against the district.

Dupree refused to comment Monday on the union's demands.

"My thoughts are, no comment," he said. Shelling did not return telephone calls from The News-Star seeking comment on the request.

"I thought giving them ample opportunity to apologize is the best thing to do," Lollie said Monday. "I did not create this. They created this. I would be neglectful if I didn't do something for the people that I represent."