Willow Run’s ruling on Hicks expected May 25

Willow Run Community Schools announced that the Board of Education will make its ruling on the charges brought forth against Director of Special Education Laconda Hicks in a special meeting tomorrow, May 25, at Willow Run High School, with a closed session beginning at 5:30 p.m.

Hicks, who has been on paid administrative leave since early April, had charges brought against her from the board prior to being placed on the leave. In a 27-page document submitted by the board, Hicks was charged, along with former Willow Run Superintendent Dr. Doris Hope-Jackson, on multiple counts. Amongst 15 charges brought against Hicks, it was alleged by the board that she received thousands of dollars in extra pay and benefits (at least $8,500 over the summer of 2009), and that she was given more than the district’s allotment of paid days off/sick leave. Hicks was also approved for a pay raise just days before the charges were announced.

“As President of the Board, it is my considered opinion that you abused your authority and that your misconduct and dereliction of duty as specified above is nothing short of shameful, reprehensible and inexcusable,” said Board President Sheri Washington in the document containing the charges. “It cannot be tolerated or condoned. It has adversely affected the District and has resulted in such a loss of confidence and trust in you, and respect for you, that you are unfit to continue in employment in this District in any capacity.”

The charges also allege that Hope-Jackson and Hicks treated co-workers, including teachers, other district administration, and parents and students, unprofessionally. The documents include direct statements from witnesses corroborating the allegations brought forth by the district.

The district began the due process hearing for Hicks on April 13. In an April 1 board meeting that lasted all of seven minutes, the school board voted 6-0, with Washington abstaining, to pursue the charges.

A source who testified in the proceedings said yesterday in a phone interview that “Laconda Hicks was able to successfully defend herself in the process.”

If they are found guilty, Hicks will face the possibility of termination and revocation of her contract, barring any further financial obligation to them from the district. Proceedings on Hope-Jackson have yet to begin.