We need to recognize there is a profound problem that needs to be addressed - we have too many students dropping out. We don't know what happens to those 12,000 kids. do they get jobs? Go to other school districts? Migrate out of the area? There's a complete array of reasons and we need the answers.

Had there been a criminal record, the door on him would have been shut from the get-go. If, in fact, someone stepped through the screening process undetected, we're grateful it came to light, and we'll take steps to eliminate something like this from happening again.

The division of support that appears to be occurring now may influence the ability of the superintendent to move the agenda forward.

It will validate that what we're doing is positive or it will give us ideas for improvements. If they can find ways we can be more efficient or save money, it's a win-win situation.

Sometimes we feel like we're the most audited agency in the state, but perhaps for good reason because we are the largest consumer of tax resources. If we're going to ask the Legislature to make greater investments in educational improvements, then taxpayers need to be assured that the dollars are well used.