Board adopts statement of charges and directs notice of intent to dismiss district employee; hearing officer approved

The Marana Unified School District governing board on consecutive motions adopted a statement of charges of dismissal regarding district employee Andy Strum, directed the superintendent to issue a notice of intent to dismiss, and approved the use of a hearing officer for the dismissal hearing.

Superintendent Dan Strereer read the motions and said the factual allegations in the packet concern "inadequate classroom performance, an evaluation issue, an improvement plan and lack of improvement in that plan." He explained that adopting the statement of charges does not itself terminate employment but places the board in a position to issue a notice if the charges are proven.

Under the second motion the superintendent was directed to issue a notice of intent to dismiss Mr. Strum at the expiration of 10 days from service of that notice; Mr. Strum would have 10 days to appeal. For the third motion the board approved the use of Ben Huffford or another hearing officer from the Arizona Department of Education's approved list to hear evidence and prepare a recommendation for the board.

Board members emphasized due process; several noted these steps are contingent on findings. All three motions passed without recorded opposition. The board then moved into an executive session under Arizona statutes to consult with legal counsel about litigation and settlement.