Statement of Andrew Brimmer
On the resignation of Bruce K. MacLaury, chairman of the Emergency Transitional Education Board of Trustees
May 26, 1998

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News Release
District of Columbia Financial Responsibility and Management Assistance Authority
Washington, DC

Statement of the Chairman

Washington, D.C. – The District of Columbia Financial Responsibility and Management Assistance Authority (Authority) announced today the resignation of Bruce MacLaury as Chairman of the Emergency Transitional Education Board of Trustees, and subsequent appointment of Maudine Cooper. I have accepted the resignation and have expressed our appreciation to Dr. MacLaury for his extraordinary service (a copy of my letter to Dr. MacLaury is attached.)

The Authority takes seriously its responsibility under Public Law 104-8 to improve the lives and educational futures of the children in the District of Columbia. The Authority, after intensive study during the summer and fall of 1996 of the condition of the public schools and the dwindling opportunities for our children's effective education, took action to improve the condition of schools and the opportunities for quality education. On November 15, 1996, the Authority established the Emergency Transitional Education Board of Trustees and the position of Chief Executive Officer-Superintendent, and charged them with implementing far-reaching changes to improve the school system.

The Emergency Transitional Education Board of Trustees has accomplished a lot in a very difficult environment. Through Mr. MacLaury's guidance as Chairman, the results have been significant. A quick sampling would include:

More than 60 teachers and administrators have participated in the first wave of training on performance standards and new assessments have provided honest baselines for measuring student performance, plus detailed data which will help shape instruction. These same assessments also provide a basis for teacher and principal evaluation A staggering amount of major facilities work was accomplished by the Chief Operating Officer – 56 new roofs, numerous boilers and chillers were replaced, dozens of schools were renovated and refreshed Eleven schools were closed, addressing the systems over capacity. Disposition of excess DCPS properties, some of which have stood vacant for years, has begun. Eight sales have been approved by the Trustees, with expected revenue of $9.5 million.

They have made solid progress, but there remains important work for the Emergency Transitional Education Board of Trustees. The framework in which this effort must be carried on has changed, so a corresponding change in the leadership of the Trustees was required.

Just as the new CEO/Superintendent for DC Public Schools, Arlene Ackerman is moving in new, exciting directions, we believe Maudine Cooper, as the new Chairman of the Emergency Transitional Education Board of Trustees, will guide the work of the Trustees. Her vast experience in community and civil rights organizations, and her position as president and CEO of the Greater Washington Urban League provide her with the right mix of community activism, business acumen, and leadership abilities.

We are pleased to see such a committed individual, with such credentials, step forward at this time. Ms. Cooper will increase the community outreach and citizen involvement, and remain committed to turning a much improved system back to the elected leadership when the time comes.