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The Rest of the Story

In a "Viewpoint" posted in the Arizona Republic web site on September 19, 2009, Doug MacEachern issues several statements about TUSD that are not based on fact.

He states that, in its Post Unitary Status Plan, the TUSD Governing Board is "calling for a two-tiered form of student discipline. One for Black and Hispanic students; one for everyone else." This is not an accurate representation of Restorative Practices referenced in the district's Post Unitary Status Plan.

Here's the rest of the story:

  • Nothing in the Post Unitary Status Plan calls for a separate discipline system based on race. The goal is to apply discipline policies and practices equitably to all students.
  • In the section of the plan called "Restorative School Culture and Climate," the following goal is presented:

    A restorative school culture and climate convey respect, support, and a sense of belonging to all students, regardless of their ethnically/racially diverse backgrounds. TUSD is committed to promoting equal access to educational opportunities and to fostering the success of traditionally underserved student populations, in particular African American and Hispanic students.

MacEachern presents other myths in his article, such as the claim that TUSD recruited teachers from out-of-state while laying off current employees. (See TUSD reported to have recruited elsewhere amid layoffs for the rest of the story about that misinformation.)

He also implies that the district expanded funding to central departments while reducing spending at the school level. (See TUSD reported to have added 7 administrative positions for the real story about how the executive team budget has actually been cut by 46%.)

Most of MacEachern's article seems to be based on the misinformation printed in other media stories, rather than based on primary research. MacEachern spoke with no district employee prior to writing his opinion piece.

For a more accurate story, see Drew Zahn's story in WorldNetDaily, which recognizes that, "the new guidelines will only help correct racial inequalities that already exist in the system." Zahn actually took the time to talk to a board member and an assistant superintendent.

When reading or listening to the news, it's important to get an accurate version of the story!

Rest of the Story Archive

TUSD reported to have added 7 administrative positions - August 18, 2009
TUSD reported to repay money in bond issue - August 4, 2009
TUSD reported to have recruited elsewhere amid layoffs - July 5, 2009