Parents Demand Answers Over McGrath Resignation

Not satisfied with responses from Superintendent Tom Williams about the resignation of former Assistant Principal Cathy McGrath, parents turned out to Monday's meeting of the Kirkwood School Board to press district leaders on the issue.

"We just want the District to know this issue is not going away and that it's here" Sue Wolter told Kirkwood Patch. "We want fairness for not only Ms. McGrath but we just want questions asked of the board and the superintendent answered."

Those questions center on the procedure for personnel decisions. McGrath's resignation has drawn concerns from some that elected leaders are not questioning the superintendent before accepting recommendations.

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"As a taxpayer, I expect our board to investigate and ask questions and then respond accordingly, not to rubber stamp every issue that comes through when a recommendation is made," Wolter said. "It concerns me that the board of education may not be asking questions."

McGrath has found a new position teaching at a charter school, according to a response from Williams to a letter submitted by Mary Ann Shea, a parent of a KHS senior. However, the position is with a charter school and will not pay into her retirement package. The fact has raised concerns from students and parents.

"I think we need explanations and there needs to be some sort of compensation," KHS senior Kayla Collier told Patch. "It doesn't necessarily have to be monetary, but she needs to have some sort of the job in the district, so she can get tenure."

Parents have requested a public forum to facilitate a dialogue about how the district makes personnel decisions. Board members and the superintendent cannot respond to public comments during board meetings.

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