Introduction to the Controversy
The chief auditor for Broward schools, Dave Rhodes, is at the center of a controversy that may lead to his termination. School Board member Allen Zeman has expressed his intention to make a motion at the June 17 School Board meeting to fire Rhodes, citing a range of issues with his performance. Despite receiving overall satisfactory marks from School Board members, Zeman’s evaluation of Rhodes was scathing, criticizing his communications, department management, relationships with staff, and the audits conducted by his office.
Background on Rhodes’ Evaluation
Rhodes was hired as chief auditor last year and recently received his evaluations from the School Board members. While most members found him to be effective or highly effective, Zeman rated him as "needs improvement." The School Board plans to discuss Rhodes’ evaluation during a workshop before making any decisions. Zeman’s motion to terminate Rhodes’ three-year contract could be voted on at the June 17 meeting, and if passed, could result in Rhodes being fired with or without cause.
Reasons for Termination
Zeman’s 21-page evaluation of Rhodes outlined several areas where he felt the auditor had failed. These included poor communication with School Board members, ineffective management of his department, strained relationships with other district staff, and issues with the audits his office conducted. Zeman also criticized Rhodes’ 388-page self-evaluation, suggesting that it did not adequately address the concerns raised. Rhodes, however, believes that his performance has been satisfactory and that Zeman’s criticisms are unjustified.
Potential Consequences of Firing
If the School Board decides to fire Rhodes, it could do so with or without cause. Firing him without cause would entitle Rhodes to 20 weeks of severance pay, approximately $77,000. However, if the board fires him for cause, as Zeman plans to propose, Rhodes would not be entitled to severance pay. Rhodes’ employment agreement outlines the reasons for which he can be fired for cause, including immorality, misconduct, and incompetency.
Reactions from Other Board Members
Not all School Board members agree with Zeman’s assessment of Rhodes. Some, like Nora Rupert, have given Rhodes high marks, praising his professionalism and ethical conduct. Others, such as Lori Alhadeff, have been critical, citing concerns about Rhodes’ engagement and communication with district staff. The board’s decision will depend on the discussions and votes at the upcoming meetings.
Recent Developments
A recent memo from Rhodes to Superintendent Howard Hepburn and School Board members has added to the controversy. The memo accused some district staff members of interfering with audits, which Rhodes believes is a serious issue. However, the timing of the memo’s release and the fact that School Board members did not receive it until late May have raised questions about Rhodes’ handling of the situation.
Conclusion
The future of Dave Rhodes as the chief auditor for Broward schools hangs in the balance. With the School Board set to discuss his evaluation and potentially vote on his termination, the outcome is uncertain. While some board members have expressed support for Rhodes, others have raised significant concerns about his performance. The decision will have implications not only for Rhodes but also for the school district’s audit practices and transparency.
FAQs
- Q: Why does School Board member Allen Zeman want to fire Dave Rhodes?
A: Zeman has cited a range of issues with Rhodes’ performance, including poor communication, ineffective department management, and problems with the audits conducted by his office. - Q: What are the potential consequences of firing Dave Rhodes?
A: If fired without cause, Rhodes would be entitled to 20 weeks of severance pay. If fired for cause, he would not receive severance pay. - Q: What do other School Board members think about Rhodes’ performance?
A: Opinions are divided, with some members praising Rhodes’ professionalism and others criticizing his engagement and communication with district staff. - Q: What is the process for deciding whether to fire Rhodes?
A: The School Board will discuss Rhodes’ evaluation and then potentially vote on his termination at the June 17 meeting. - Q: Can the School Board fire Rhodes based on his evaluations?
A: Yes, the School Board can fire Rhodes with five votes, regardless of his evaluations.
