Honestly, who cares which fund was used to pay a few students to retake the SAT. The point is, it’s wrong.
People are stunned by the SAT revelation. They know it smacks of an unethical practice that brings into question the integrity of schools Superintendent Patrick Russo’s whole stewardship.
The Pilot reported a high teacher turnover rate in Moore County despite a recession. People of principle usually care about human loss (teachers) but that doesn’t seem to be the case here. Is there a connection between Russo’s conduct and the high turnover? Sure sounds like it.
No SAT scores should ever be manipulated for improved state standing. Members of the Moore County Board of Education need to look out for the students, see this issue for what it is and do their job of not extending Russo’s contract. If this problem is endemic throughout his administration, an early resignation would be the only course to take.
The real question: does anyone care? If so, phone your school board member and let him or her know.
Bonnie Dougherty
Southern Pines
