SACRAMENTO, Calif. – St. HOPE Public Schools, a prominent presence in the Oak Park community, is facing scrutiny from the Sacramento City Unified School District (SCUSD). A report released by the district raises concerns about teacher credentials, conflicts of interest, and financial management within St. HOPE Public Schools, which operates two charter schools under SCUSD.
St. HOPE, which includes Sacramento Charter High School and St. HOPE PS7, has been operating under a charter with SCUSD since its inception. However, according to SCUSD Superintendent Lisa Allen, a report conducted by a third-party auditor has raised concerns about the operation of the schools.
During a recent interview with ABC10, St. HOPE Public Schools Superintendent Lisa Ruda addressed the issues raised in the report. She assured parents and students that the current charter is in place for the current school year and there will be no changes. Ruda also emphasized that the charter extends through June of next year.
One of the main concerns raised in the report is the low number of teachers with an “effective credential.” Ruda and St. HOPE Public Schools Board Chair Cassandra Jennings respond to this issue by highlighting the progress made in recent years. They state that 86% of their teachers now have effective credentials, a significant improvement from previous years. Ruda also emphasizes that all St. HOPE teachers have the necessary credentials to teach in the district.
The report also brings up potential conflicts of interest within St. HOPE Public Schools. Jennings, who serves as both the board chair and CEO of St. HOPE Academy, a nonprofit that provides services to St. HOPE Public Schools, is mentioned specifically. However, Jennings addressed these claims, stating that an attorney opinion was obtained before she took on these roles and followed proper procedures to avoid conflicts of interest.
The report also alleges financial mismanagement, including “fiscal irregularities” and “lack of internal controls.” St. HOPE has until August 26 to respond to these concerns before the district makes a decision on whether to renew their charter.
Ruda expressed confidence that they would be able to address the concerns raised in the report and secure a renewal from the district. However, she acknowledged that if the charter is not renewed, they can appeal the decision to the Sacramento County Office of Education and the California Department of Education.
Both St. HOPE Public Schools and SCUSD have expressed a desire to work together and address any issues before the charter renewal deadline of July 1, 2020. St. HOPE leaders also reiterated their commitment to improving the lives of their students and their families.
As the situation unfolds, parents and students can rest assured that the current charter will remain in place for the current school year and efforts are being made to address the concerns raised in the report.