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Parents and volunteers press Mt Vernon school board to investigate music boosters' governance
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Summary
Multiple parents and former booster treasurers told the Mt Vernon Community School Corp board they had documented concerns about financial controls and governance at the Mount Vernon Music Boosters and asked the district to ensure safeguards when school staff and booster activities overlap.
Several parents and volunteer leaders urged the Mt Vernon Community School Corp board on Tuesday to review governance and financial oversight of the Mount Vernon Music Boosters, saying repeated turnover among treasurers and opaque practices risk student welfare and family trust.
Candy Early, who identified herself as a treasurer for the Mount Vernon music boosters, said she submitted supporting documentation to the district alleging weaknesses in financial controls and the scope of an internal review. "That review involved decisions with individuals directly connected to the concerns raised without inclusion of independent perspectives or a full review of financial and governance records," Early said, adding that confidentiality promises made to her previously were not maintained.
The comments drew responses from booster leaders who emphasized student benefit. "This program is ... to give them opportunities to grow as musicians, to build discipline and confidence," said Brandy Burt, president of the high school band boosters, urging the board and public to focus on students and the program's value. Michelle Tukey, the boosters' current secretary, told the board she supported Early's call for investigation and noted "we've had 4 treasurers quit over the past 3 years," a pattern she said warranted further review.
Parent Christy Stiff said families deserve a clearer accounting of fees and fundraising: "Our fees are at an all time high of $1,100 without the cost of transportation," she said, and described falling competitive results and fundraising shortfalls as indicators the program's operations need improved stewardship.
The district reported recent outreach to booster organizations. Dr. Parker said administration and Carla Nugent met with 12 booster organizations representing about 42 officers, provided a simple reporting template principals can request annually, and compiled fundraising and branding resources for booster leaders. "We are going to monitor their 501(c)(3) status and make sure they're all in good standing," Dr. Parker said, and officials plan a second annual booster officer meeting in August or September to support continuity and governance.
Board members did not take formal action at the meeting on the complaints. Speakers who raised concerns said they are not asking the board to run boosters but to ensure "appropriate insight, accountability, and protections" when school staff and booster organizations intersect. The board packet includes written materials and the boosters' responses; the board said it will take the public records under consideration.
The board's next regular meeting is expected to include routine business and follow-up reports; no disciplinary or contractual actions were proposed at this session.
