Scotts Valley Superintendent of Schools Tanya Krause on Monday, August 1, sent this email district parents.
Here is the complete text:
“As most of you know, effective July 1, I became the new Superintendent of this wonderful school district, serving the Scotts Valley community. For the past month, I have been very busy transitioning critical issues facing the district, and meeting with members of the school community and community at large. Upon accepting this position, I had a tentative plan in place for my first 100 days on the job. That plan was altered based on the situation that occurred at Scotts Valley High at the end of the school year. Even before my official start date, I began to research and investigate the situation that occurred and have been working diligently to resolve this issue as expeditiously as possible. I am sorry that I have not had information to share prior to now, but certain processes and procedures take time. Please know that the Board of Trustees and I want what is best for all students and that we also need to adhere to legal processes and legal rights of individuals, especially minors. I acknowledge this has been frustrating to members of the community and I am truly sorry for that.
“I am able to confirm that the student who wrote the story will not be returning to Scotts Valley High School. Additionally, we are putting processes, systems, and training in place to better improve our coordinated response, including communication protocols. We are working with the Scotts Valley Counseling Center to offer services, and I am also working with the High School Administrative team to provide opportunities for students and staff to dialogue, become more knowledgeable and to process their thoughts related to this experience. We will continue to work in partnership with our Police Department and School Resource Officer, and better clarify and educate parents regarding the differing roles and responsibilities of the Police Department, which differs from school personnel.
“The Board members and I agree that we need to hold a Special Meeting prior to the start of school to be able to share the facts that we can, and inform the community of what we have done to address some of the concerns expressed about how the situation was handled. We will be holding a meeting on August 9 at the City of Scotts Valley Council Chambers. This information will be posted on the district web page.
“I want to thank the community for the support I have received and the amazing dedication and generosity of this community in helping support all of our schools! We are preparing and excited for the start of a new school year and look forward to experiencing all of the wonderful positive programs and activities we have here. I look forward to working with you to continue to build upon the great work that has been accomplished in this district.”
Sincerely,
Tanya Krause, Superintendent