Report of Investigation Date: June 19, 2017 Submitted to: Michelle Kenney Knutson, Flynn & Deans, P.A. 1155 Centre Pointe Drive, Suite 10 Mendota Heights, MN 55120 Prepared by: Linda Chung NeuVest Consultant 2136 Ford Parkway #125 St. Paul, MN 55116 ® School: Shakopee Public Schools Page 1 of 18 Confidential/Subject to Disclosure Restrictions NV0001 Outline of Report I. Overview of Scope of Investigation……………………………………… A. Scope of Fact-Gathering…….……………....………………………. . B. Persons Interviewed…………………………………………………. C. Documents Reviewed/Exhibits……………………………………… II. Report Details A. Positive aspects of the District………………………………………. B. Summary of primary concerns …………………….………………… ………………………………… ………………. 3 3 3 3 D. 6 6 6 7 9 10 10 11 12 12 13 14 14 14 15 15 III. Suggestions for improvement…………………………………….………. 16 IV. Conclusion………………………………………………………………. 18 ………………………………………. 1. Improper use of purchasing card……………………………. . . . Page 2 of 18 Confidential/Subject to Disclosure Restrictions NV0002 I NEUVESTEM Neutral Workolace Investigations I. Overview of Scope of Investigation A. Scope of fact-Gathering On April 10, 2017, l\Iichelle Kennev, of Knutson, and Deans, P.A., retained Linda Chung (?Chung?) to conduct a neutral fact?gathering into the overall operational health of the Shakopee Public Schools (?District?). B. Persons interviewed Individuals interviewed as part of the fact-gathering include Additionally, Superintendent Rod Thompson (?Thompson?) was also interviewed. The interviews commenced on April 20, 2017, and concluded on May 30, 2017. Chung conducted 11 interviews, averaging 1.5 6.5 hours in length, at an off?site location in Bloomington.~ In an effort to protect the con?dentiality of the information disclosed during the interviews, as well as to address retaliation concerns expressed by several people, none of the interviewees, with the exception of Thompson, is identified in this report. C. Documents reviewed/ exhibits The following documents were provided and reviewed as part of this fact?gathering: 1. Email communications 2. Email correspondence Email communication Email correspondence 7. Email communications None of the school board members were mtervrewed for this report as it was deemed outsrde the scope of the fact?gathering. 2 Two brief follow?up interviews were conducted at the district of?ce board room. Page 3 of 18 Con?dential/ Subject to Disclosure Restrictions NV0003 Neutral Worknlace Investigations Email correspondence Email communications 10. Email communications 1 1. Email communications 13. Summary of Information; . Email correspondence 16. 17. Email communications 18. Email correspondence 19. 20. Email communications 21. Purchase Card Program Procedures Manual and accompanying Acknowledge of Receipt and Terms of Revocation Form Exh. A 22. 23. Model Policy 412 on Expense Reimbursement; . Email correspondence 23. Employment Agreement for Superintendent of Schools of . Thompson Transaction Reimbursement Log (Ext); 27. 28. 29. 30. Delta travel itineraries betweenjanuary 2015 to May 2016; . Email communications from Thompson . . Email communications Page 4 of 18 Con?dential/ Subject to Disclosure Restrictions NV0004 Neutral Worknlace Investigations . Email communications LJJ L14 . Email communications -, 35. Email communications . Email communications . Email communications . Email communications . Email communications . Email communications 41. Email communications 42. Transaction Search Company (Thompson?s P?card purchases from 3/ 1/ 15-3/31/ 17). Exhibits A. Purchase Card Program Procedures Manual and accompanying Acknowledge of Receipt and Terms of Revocation Form B. Thompson Transaction Reimbursement Log C. D. In addition, Chung reviewed the Shakopee School Board Policies as found on the Shakopee School District?s website, a copy of which is not attached but is available online. Page 5 of 18 Con?dential/ Subject to Disclosure Restrictions NV0005 Neutral Workolace Investigations II. Report Details A. Positive aspects of the district Many who were interviewed identified Shakopee Public Schools as a good district that has undergone a lot of changes in recent years. Most people feel they work with talented, capable colleagues who care about the District and want to do good work. Most agreed that they work well together within the district office and between the district office and the school buildings. Overall, there is mutual trust and respect among peers, as well as with the School Board. Frequently cited as positive is the District?s innovative vision in bringing the academies model to the high school, which is largely attributable to the Superintendent.3 Many view Thompson as a change agent who has taken Shakopee from operating under a small school district mentality to one that?s become bigger, bolder and more progressive. Also attributable to Thompson is his ability to build positive relationships with business partners to reach desired outcomes of the District. A few mentioned the equity work that?s taking place in the schools as a positive response to the changing needs of a growing and diverse student body within Shakopee schools.4 Thompson agrees the District has been doing well, despite the budget crisis. From an effectiveness standpoint, the administration has accomplished 100% of the tasks delegated to them from the School Board. B. Summary of primary concerns During the course of the interviews with all parties, several common themes emerged, ee e1 Page 6 of 18 Con?dential/ Subject to Disclosure Restrictions NV0006 Neutral Worknlace Investigations 1. Improper use of purchasing card (IE?card) Several of the people interviewed allege that Thompson has intentionally used the District?s credit card for his own personal use (to the tune of 83,500 plus), including alcohol purchases (8 times) and personal travel for him and his Wife to Nashville in violation of district policy on expense reimbursement and purchase card manual.8 In addition, they claim Thompson failed to submit itemized receipts in a timely manner, a delay of over six months in some cases, which made it dif?cult to keep track of his purchases. One person points out that he she does not believe Thompson set out to intentionally defraud the District. Rather, the person believes Thompson was careless and sloppy With his card use which set in motion the cumbersome task of reconciling a long list of expenses for an extended period of time. Thompson admits he has mistakenly used the P?card for personal expenses, mainly due to the automatic billing system through Amazon, but that he has since reimbursed the District for a total 7 Thompson is currently under police investigation for allegedly using school district money for personal purchases. See south/42858063html, dated June '15, 2017. 8 See Model Policy 412 on Expense Reimbursement. See also Exh. A, Purchase Card Program Procedures Manual and accompanying Acknowledge of Receipt and Terms of Revocation Form. Page 12 of 18 Confidential/ Subject to Disclosure Restrictions NVOO12 of $3,500 in July or August of 2016.9 With respect to the alcoholic beverages, Thompson explains they were inadvertently put on the same bill as the reimbursable meals by various servers, despite his requests to keep them separate. As for the personal Nashville trip, Thompson believes it was mistakenly thought to be part of the many school-related trips to Nashville and that no one caught the mistake until just recently. During the course of the fact-gathering, Chung also discovered other questionable travel expenses relating to air travel, including the purchase of first class tickets (9 times) and numerous fee upgrades to comfort or exit row seats.10 Thompson explains that due to his large size, he obtained prior authorization from the Board Chair to travel comfortably and that the Chair told him the District would incur the costs because “we’re not going to cram our CEO into economy seats.” 9 As recently as May 2017, another personal expense for airline travel to Nashville was discovered and reimbursed (for him and his wife). See also Exh. B, Thompson Transaction Reimbursement Log. 10 The District’s policy on expense reimbursement states “all district business expenses to be reimbursed must be approved by the supervising administrator.” It further states “commercial transportation shall reflect economy fares.” See MSBA/MASA Model Policy 412 on Expense Reimbursement, 412-1, sect. II (Authorization) and III (Reimbursement). Page 13 of 18 Confidential/Subject to Disclosure Restrictions NV0013 I Neutral Worknlace Investigations ?the District is broken.? Still others are hopeful that the District can bounce back and that what they are experiencing now is just ?a bump in the road.? The following suggestions were offered during the course of the interviews: B. Suggestions for School Board Be more transparent to stakeholders Seek more input from the Cabinet, not just the Superintendent Ask more questions of the administration instead of blindly accepting and approving recommendations 0 Stop socializing with the Superintendent to avoid the appearance of impropriety Hold the Superintendent accountable, provide clear checks and balances C. Suggestions for Cabinet Engage in better communications with individual buildings D. Suggestions for all district leaders Increase Visibility and engagement with stakeholders Page 17 of 18 Confidential/ Subject to Disclosure Restrictions NVOO17 IV. Conclusion This report summarizes the concerns and suggestions for improving the operational health of the District based upon available information. This report is being submitted to Ms. Michelle Kenney, Knutson, Flynn and Deans, P.A., for her review and consideration. The report does not purport to reach any conclusions or recommendations regarding the expressed concerns or the identified suggestions. Nothing in the report should be construed as legal counsel or advice. Respectfully submitted, Linda Chung June 19, 2017 Page 18 of 18 Confidential/Subject to Disclosure Restrictions NV0018 NEUVESTEM Neutral Workplace Investigations l. Preliminary Discussion Linda Chung (?Chung") interviewed? and thereafter prepared this summary. Neither party electronically recorded the interview. Chung told- that Chung was retained as a neutral third-party to gather facts pertaining to the overall operational health of Shakopee Public Schools Chung provided- her contact information.2 She also provided the Data Practices Notice [?Tennessen Warning?) to review and sign. - stated that. understood Chung?s role, including the fact that Chung was not providing legal counsel to- or to the District. did not have concerns about Chung?s ability to be a fair and neutral fact-gatherer. consented to the interview, agreed to provide complete, truthful information and stated that there was nothing that would affect or impair. ability to recall or provide information at the time of the interview. Chung told- that Michelle Kenney of Knutson, Deans, P.A., the District's legal counsel, would take steps to preserve confidentiality consistent with its legal obligations. Chung advised. that the law prohibits retaliation against a person who comes forward with concerns. - agreed to report retaliation concerns to Michelle Kenney directly. 2 In addition to providing Chung's contact information, it set forth the following expectations intended to preserve the integrity of the fact-gathering: Cooperate fully; Provide truthful, complete information; Not record the interview; Not retaliate against someone who comes forward with concerns, participates in the fact-gathering or associates with someone who has concerns or participates in the fact-gathering; report safety or retaliation concerns. 1 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV001 9 Neutral Workplace Investigations Using the P-card for personal items V. Suggestions for Improvement/ Closing Comments reach out to the community more; The Board has already taken some action in an effort to restore trust from the community, like holding the open forum in March. Ifa referendum was put out now, however, thinks it wouldn pass. Despite the Board? 5 attem ts the District may have? passed the point of no return." --. truly feels pain for the District. .wants it to get better and hopes that some action is taken as a result of this investigation. - concludes, ?spending all this money and nothing getting done will cause more problems down the road.? 6 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0024 I Neutral Workolace Investigations VII. Conclusion - confirmed that-had provided truthful information and had a full and complete opportunity to communicate facts helpful to the fact gathering. said that there were no questions that. thought Chung would ask, but did not. Chung thanked- for. cooperation and reviewed the confidentiality and non-retaliation instructions again before concluding the interview. 7 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0025 Neutral Workplace Investigations I. Preliminary Discussion Linda Chung (?Chung") interviewed? and thereafter prepared this summary. Neither party electronically recorded the interview. Chung told- that Chung was retained as a neutral third-party to gather facts pertaining to the overall operational health of Shakopee Public Schools (?District?). Chung provided- her contact information.1 She also provided the Data Practices Notice ("Tennessen Warning") to review and sign, a copy of which was provided to- stated that. understood Chung's role, including the fact that Chung was not providing legal counsel to- or to the District. did not have concerns about Chung?s ability to be a fair and neutral fact-gatherer. consented to the interview, agreed to provide complete, truthful information and stated that there was nothing that would affect or impair. ability to recall or provide information at the time ofthe interview. Chung told- that Michelle Kenney of Knutson, Deans, P.A., the District's legal counsel, would take steps to preserve confidentiality consistent with its legal obligations. Chung advised. that the law prohibits retaliation against a person who comes forward with concerns. - agreed to report retaliation concerns to Michelle Kenney directly.2 1 In addition to providing Chung's contact information, it set forth the following expectations intended to preserve the integrity of the fact-gathering: Cooperate fully; Provide truthful, complete information; Not record the interview; Not retaliate against someone who comes forward with concerns, participates in the fact-gathering or associates with someone who has concerns or participates in the fact-gathering; report safety or retaliation concerns. Con?dential/Privileged Communication 1 NV0026 Neutral Workplace Investigations V. Suggestions for Improvement/ Closing Comments doesn?t have a good response to what can be done to improve the negative environment. Overall, there needs to be increased visibility and engagement by the Superintendent, the School Board and even the Cabinet. More time in buildings, more time spent with teachers and more timely communications are all ways in which they can accomplish that. once suggested that those in leadership positions should work as substitutes in buildings at least five times a year as a way for them to build up relationships and be more cognizant 1_ 6 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0031 Neutral Workplace Investigations ofwhat teachers do on a day-to-day basis. suggestion and hopes to see it implemented some day. elieves the community will not pass any future referendums- . I claims, ?Shakopee is a pretty unforgiving community.? VII. Conclusion confirmed that. had provided truthful information and had a full and complete opportunity to communicate facts helpful to the fact gathering. said that there were no questions that. thought Chung would ask, but did not. Chung thanked- for-cooperation and reviewed the confidentiality and non-retaliation instructions again before concluding the interview. 7 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0032 I Neutral Workplace Investigations I. Preliminary Discussion Linda Chung (?Chung") interviewed? and thereafter prepared this summary. Neither party electronically recorded the interview. Chung told- that Chung was retained as a neutral third-party to gather facts pertaining to the overall operational health of Shakopee Public Schools Chung provided- her contact information.1 She also provided the Data Practices Notice (?Tennessen Warning") to review and sign. - stated that. understood Chung's role, including the fact that Chung was not providing legal counsel to. or to the District. did not have concerns about Chung?s ability to be a fair and neutral fact-gatherer. consented to the interview, agreed to provide complete, truthful information and stated that there was nothing that would affect or impair-ability to recall or provide information at the time of the interview. Chung told- that Michelle Kenney of Knutson, Deans, PA, the District's legal counsel, would take steps to preserve con?dentiality consistent with its legal obligations. Chung advised. that the law prohibits retaliation against a person who comes forward with concerns. - agreed to report retaliation concerns to Michelle Kenney directly.2 1 In addition to providing Chung's contact information, it set forth the following expectations intended to preserve the integrity of the fact-gathering: Cooperate fully; Provide truthful, complete information; Not record the interview; Not retaliate against someone who comes forward with concerns, participates in the fact-gathering or associates with someone who has concerns or participates in the fact-gathering; report safety or retaliation concerns. Con?dential/Privileged Communication 1 NV0033 Neutral Workplace Investigations G. -alleges Thompson has engaged in-? 1. Improper use ofpurchasing card (P-card): What little information. has about Thompson's use of the P-card is second-hand. I is aware, however, that there were a lot of unfair speculation and mean-spirited personal attacks aimed at Thompson regarding his use of the P-card for adoption expenses, which clari?ed was allowable under Thompson's contract. Con?dential/Privileged Communication 7 NV0039 Neutral Worknlace Investigations VI. Suggestions for Improvement 8 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0040 Neutral Workplace Investigations following: suggests the 0 Get out more to buildings and the community, be more visible; 0 Engage in more honest communications to stakeholders; 0 Take ownership of?nance and make real cuts; and 9 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0041 IX. Conclusion confirmed that had provided truthful information and had a full and complete opportunity to communicate facts helpful to the fact gathering. said that there were no questions that thought Chung would ask, but did not. Chung thanked for cooperation and reviewed the confidentiality and nonretaliation instructions again before concluding the interview. Confidential/Privileged Communication 10 NV0042 NEUVESTEM Neutral Workplace Investigations Interview Summary of 1. Preliminary Discussion Linda Chung (?Chung") interviewed? and thereafter prepared this summary. Neither party electronically recorded the interview. Chung told- that Chung was retained as a neutral third-party to gather facts pertaining to the overall operational health of Shakopee Public Schools Chung provided- her contact information.3 She also provided the Data Practices Notice (?Tennessen Warning?) to review and sign. stated that. understood Chung's role, including the fact that Chung was not providing legal counsel to. or to the District. did not have concerns about Chung?s ability to be a fair and neutral fact-gatherer. consented to the interview, agreed to provide complete, truthful information and stated that there was nothing that would affect or impair. ability to recall or provide information at the time of the interview. Chung told- that Michelle Kenney of Knutson, Deans, P.A., the District?s legal counsel, would take steps to preserve confidentiality consistent with its legal obligations. Chung advised. that the law prohibits retaliation against a person who comes forward with concerns. - agreed to report retaliation concerns to Michelle Kenney directly.4 I 3 In addition to providing Chung?s contact information, it set forth the following expectations intended to preserve the integrity of the fact-gathering: Cooperate fully; Provide truthful, complete information; Not record the interview; Not retaliate against someone who comes forward with concerns, participates in the fact-gathering or associates with someone who has concerns or participates in the fact-gathering; report safety or retaliation concerns. 1 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0043 Neutral Workplace Investigations 1. Improper use of purchasing card {P-card): - takes issues with the following: a. Personal Use Thompson has used the P-card for personal use on numerous occasions, which is prohibited under the procedures manual, in the amount of approximately $3,500.00 during the 2015/2016 school year.11 As ofAugust 2016, Thompson has reimbursed the District in full, but not without having to go through the cumbersome task over several days of reconciling a long list of expenses for an extended period of time. Thompson has since voluntarily given up using his P-card and turned it over to maintain so he doesn?t have to deal with the administrative mess he?s created for everyone. In all fairness to Thompson, does not believe that actions amount to fraud or deception per se. Rather, believes Thompson was just sloppy in how he used his card and even sloppier in turning in timely, detailed receipts for both personal and business ex enses as re uired the rocedure 11 See Exh. 21, Purchase Card Program Procedures Manual and accompanying Acknowledge of Receipt ofthe MasterCard Purchase Card and Terms of Revocation Form; Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0048 Neutral Workplace Investigations the Board needs to take a The School Board needs to change the way they operate as well. -points out that they are a relatively new Board (four out of seven), a majority of whom have only gone through one election cycle. The Board needs to: 0 Be more transparent; 0 Seek more input from multiple sources for information, not just one [the Superintendent); and Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0050 Neutral Workplace Investigations Shakopee Public Schools MasterCard Purchase Card Program and accompanying Acknowledgement of Receipt and Terms of Revocation Form (Exh.21) Employment Agreements for the Superintendent of Independent School District #720, dated July 11, 2016 (Exh. 25) IX. Conclusion con?rmed that. had provided truthful information and had a full and complete opportunity to communicate facts helpful to the fact gathering. said that there were no questions that. thought Chung would ask, but did not. Chung thanked- for. cooperation and reviewed the con?dentiality and non-retaliation instructions again before concluding the interview. 9 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0051 I Neutral Workplace Investigations Interview Summary 0 l. Preliminary Discussion Linda Chung ("Chung") interviewed? and thereafter prepared this summary. Neither party electronically recorded the interview. Chung told- that Chung was retained as a neutral third-party to gather facts pertaining to the overall operational health of Shakopee Public Schools Chung provided- her contact information.2 She also provided the Data Practices Notice (?Tennessen Warning") to review and sign. - stated that. understood Chung's role, including the fact that Chung was not providing legal counsel to. or to the District. did not have concerns about Chung's ability to be a fair and neutral fact-gatherer. consented to the interview, agreed to provide complete, truthful information and stated that there was nothing that would affect or impair-ability to recall or provide information at the time of the interview. Chung told- that Michelle Kenney of Knutson, Deans, P.A., the District's legal counsel, would take steps to preserve confidentiality consistent with its legal obligations. Chung advised. that the law prohibits retaliation against a person who comes forward with concerns. - agreed to report retaliation concerns to Michelle Kenney directly. 1? 2 In addition to providing Chung?s contact information, it set forth the following expectations intended to preserve the integrity of the fact-gathering: Cooperate fully; Provide truthful, complete information; Not record the interview; Not retaliate against someone who comes forward with concerns, participates in the fact-gathering or associates with someone who has concerns or participates in the fact-gathering; report safety or retaliation concerns. 1 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0052 I Neutral Worknlace Investigations 1. Improper use ofpurchasing card (P-card]: -- witnessed Thompson use his P-card for personal expenses, like alcohol, while at an equity conference_ --shared with. that Thompson would expense other personal items on the card and not provide adequate itemization of receipts for reimbursement to the District. 8 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0059 Neutral Worknlace Investigations Vl. Suggestions for Improvement -identified the following? in order for the district, as a whole, to heal: 10 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0061 Neutral Worknlace Investigations Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0062 I Neutral Workolace Investigations Conclusion - confirmed that. had provided truthful information and had a full and complete opportunity to communicate facts helpful to the fact gathering. - said that there were no questions that. thought Chung would ask, but did not. Chung thanked- for. cooperation and reviewed the confidentiality and non- retaliation instructions again before concluding the interview. 12 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0063 I Neutral Workplace Investigations Interview Summary of- l. Preliminary Discussion Linda Chung (?Chung") interviewed? and thereafter prepared this summary. Neither party electronically recorded the interview. Chung told- that Chung was retained as a neutral third-party to gather facts pertaining to the overall operational health of Shakopee Public Schools Chung provided- her contact information.1 She also provided the Data Practices Notice (?Tennessen Warning") to review and sign, a copy of which was provided to- - stated that. understood Chung's role, including the fact that Chung was not providing legal counsel to. or to the District. did not have concerns about Chung?s ability to be a fair and neutral fact-gatherer. consented to the interview, agreed to provide complete, truthful information and stated that there was nothing that would affect or impair. ability to recall or provide information at the time of the interview. Chung told- that Michelle Kenney of Knutson, Deans, PA, the District's legal counsel, would take steps to preserve confidentiality consistent with its legal obligations. Chung advised. that the law prohibits retaliation against a person who comes forward with concerns. - agreed to report retaliation concerns to Michelle Kenney directly. 1 In addition to providing Chung's contact information, it set forth the following expectations intended to preserve the integrity of the fact-gathering: Cooperate fully; Provide truthful, complete information; Not record the interview; Not retaliate against someone who comes forward with concerns, participates in the fact-gathering or associates with someone who has concerns or participates in the fact-gathering; report safety or retaliation concerns. 1 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0064 Neutral Worknlace Investigations Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0066 Neutral Worknlace Investigations Thompson has been more guarded with information regarding the P-card. doesn't think he?s engaged in any kind of deception per se, but Thompson has acknowledged that the number of personal transactions made on the P-card is on 7 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0070 Neutral Worknlace Investigations the high side? and that worries him to the point where he's reluctant to share the information with others because it's just another thing to hold against to him. claims all personal expenses have been reconciled and paid in full by Thompson as ofAugust 2016. fears it hasn?t been reconciled so there is definitely some undercurrent between them that needs to be addressed. 14 See Exh.28, a list of personal transactions by Thompson from 3/1/2015 to 3/6/17, entitled Thompson Transaction Reimbursement Log. Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0071 Neutral Worknlace Investigations V. Suggestions for Improvement - would like to see the following changes in order to make the District 3 more positive environment: Con?dential/Privileged Communication NVOO72 NEUVESTM Neutral Workplace Investigations 0 Have the district leaders, including Thompson, put out more information to the public 0 Have Thompson go out and meet with more teacher groups16 0 Figure out how to address concerns with teachers without them first posting their gripes on social media.17 Thompson Transaction Reimbursement Log dated 3/1/2015-3/6/2017 (Exh. 26) Vll. Conclusion - con?rmed that. had provided truthful information and had a full and complete opportunity to communicate facts helpful to the fact gathering. - said that there were no questions that. thought Chung would ask, but did not. Chung thanked- for. cooperation and reviewed the confidentiality and non-retaliation instructions again before concluding the interview. can no longer defend Thompson and some ofhis behaviors, specifically with respect to his P-card purchases. Previously, - accepted his explanation for why so many personal items were charged to 16? 18 On May 30, 2017, during Chung's second visit to the district of?ce to review P-card transaction logs.? 10 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0073 Neutral Workplace Investigations the P-card.19 Now that. has had a closer look at the transaction log believes ?there's a consciousness" with which Thompson used the P?card, on and off, for personal use. 19 Thompson told. that for a block of time, all of his personal purchases on Amazon got billed mistakenly to the P-card rather than to his own credit card. Con?dential/Privileged Communication 11 NVOO74 Neutral Workplace Investigations l. Preliminary Discussion Linda Chung (?Chung") interviewed nd thereafter prepared this summary. Neither party electronically recorded the interview. Chung told- that Chung was retained as a neutral third-party to gather facts pertaining to the overall operational health of Shakopee Public Schools Chung provided- her contact information.1 - also provided the Data Practices Notice l?Tennessen Warning") to review and sign, a copy of which was given to stated that. understood Chung?s role, including the fact that Chung was not providing legal counsel to. or to the District. did not have concerns about Chung's ability to be a fair and neutral fact-gatherer. consented to the interview, agreed to provide complete, truthful information and stated that there was nothing that would affect or impair her ability to recall or provide information at the time of the interview. Chung told- that Michelle Kenney of Knutson, Deans, P.A., the District's legal counsel, would take steps to preserve confidentiality consistent with its legal obligations.2 Chung advised her that the law prohibits retaliation against a person who comes forward with concerns. - agreed to report retaliation concerns to Michelle Kenney directly.3 1 In addition to providing Chung's contact information, it set forth the following expectations intended to preserve the integrity of the fact-gathering: Cooperate fully; Provide truthful, complete information; Not record the interview; Not retaliate against someone who comes forward with concerns, participates in the fact-gathering or associates with someone who has concerns or participates in the fact-gathering; report safety or retaliation concerns. 1 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0075 Neutral Worknlace Investigations V. Suggestions for Improvement There's also been improved communications and trans arency from the district of?ce out to the public 7 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0081 I Neutral Workolace Investigations VII. Conclusion - con?rmed that. had provided truthful information and had a full and complete opportunity to communicate facts helpful to the fact gathering. said that there were no questions that-thought Chung would ask, but did not. Chung thanked- for. cooperation and reviewed the con?dentiality and non-retaliation instructions again before concluding the interview. Con?dential/Privileged Communication 8 NV0082 I Neutral Workplace Investigations l. Preliminary Discussion Linda Chung (?Chung") interviewed? and thereafter prepared this summary. Neither party electronically recorded the interview. Chung told- that Chung was retained as a neutral third-party to gather facts pertaining to the overall operational health of Shakopee Public Schools Chung provided- her contact information.2 She also provided the Data Practices Notice (?Tennessen Warning?) to review and sign. - stated that. understood Chung's role, including the fact that Chung was not providing legal counsel to. or to the District. did not have concerns about Chung?s ability to be a fair and neutral fact-gatherer. consented to the interview, agreed to provide complete, truthful information and stated that there was nothing that would affect or impair. ability to recall or provide information at the time of the interview. Chung told- that Michelle Kenney of Knutson, Deans, PA, the District's legal counsel, would take steps to preserve confidentiality consistent with its legal obligations. Chung advised. that the law prohibits retaliation against a person who comes forward with concerns. - agreed to report retaliation concerns to Michelle Kenney directly. 1? 2 in addition to providing Chung's contact information, it set forth the following expectations intended to preserve the integrity of the fact-gathering: Cooperate fully; Provide truthful, complete information; Not record the interview; Not retaliate against someone who comes forward with concerns, participates in the fact-gathering or associates with someone who has concerns or participates in the fact-gathering; report safety or retaliation concerns. 1 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0083 Neutral Workolace Investigations _0mmitted to putting students and teachers f-ii st, something they have not lost ?ight ofamidst all the controversy. There are also some positive things happening with the District, like the academies at the high school. Con?dential/Privileged Communication 3 NV0085 Neutral Worknlace Investigations V. Suggestions for Improvement - suggested the need for all of leadership to do the following: The Superintendent - go out to the buildings more and engage with teachers 5 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0087 I Neutral Workplace Investigations VII. Conclusion - con?rmed that. had provided truthful information and had a full and complete opportunity to communicate facts helpful to the fact gathering. said that there were no questions that. thought Chung would ask, but did not. Chung thanked- for. cooperation and reviewed the con?dentiality and non-retaliation instructions again before concluding the interview. 6 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0088 I Neutral Workplace Investigations Interview Summary 0 l. Preliminary Discussion Linda Chung (?Chung") interviewed? and thereafter prepared this summary. Neither party electronically recorded the interview. Chung told- that Chung was retained as a neutral third-party to gather facts pertaining to the overall operational health of Shakopee Public Schools Chung provided- her contact information.1 She also provided the Data Practices Notice (?Tennessen Warning") to review and sign. - stated that. understood Chung's role, including the fact that Chung was not providing legal counsel to- or to the District. did not have concerns about Chung?s ability to be a fair and neutral fact-gatherer. consented to the interview, agreed to provide complete, truthful information and stated that there was nothing that would affect or impair. ability to recall or provide information at the time of the interview. Chung told- that Michelle Kenney of Knutson, Deans, P.A., the District?s legal counsel, would take steps to preserve confidentiality consistent with its legal obligations. Chung advised. that the law prohibits retaliation against a person who comes forward with concerns. - agreed to report retaliation concerns to Michelle Kenney directly. 1 In addition to providing Chung's contact information, it set forth the following expectations intended to preserve the integrity of the fact-gathering: Cooperate fully; Provide truthful, complete information; Not record the interview; Not retaliate against someone who comes forward with concerns, participates in the fact-gathering or associates with someone who has concerns or participates in the fact-gathering; report safety or retaliation concerns. 1 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0089 Neutral Workplace Investigations Historically, Shakopee has been a solid district. The community really trusted and supported the schools. Until four years ago, the District successfully passed referendums with an astounding 70% of community support, which is unheard of in other districts. Mid way through. tenure, Shakopee demographics began to change with a more diverse population coming in and bringing forth new challenges for the District in dealing with lower socio-economic, cultural and language barriers. It became increasingly clear that this was an area in which the District needed to pour more resources and for the most part, they have done that. The District also saw a shift in leadership style from the former Superintendent John McBroom (?McBroom?), who stayed in the background and quietly supported initiatives, to Thompson, who ?moved extremely fast and spent a lot of money? without being sensitive to the community?s concerns. 2 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0090 NEUVESTEM Neutral Workplace. Investigations believes that the District is going through a bump in the road right now but that Shakopee is still a good district. I emphasizes there?s a lot more good things going on than what's happening now and they will recover from this ifthe district leaders can do the following:4 0 communicate better with buildings and the community; 0 be more proactive in explaining things to stakeholders _and 0 be more supportive of the individual buildings. VII. Conclusion - confirmed that. had provided truthful information and had a full and complete opportunity to communicate facts helpful to the fact gathering. said that there were no questions that. thought Chung would ask, but did not. Chung thanked- for. cooperation and reviewed the confidentiality and non- retaliation instructions again before concluding the interview. ON Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0094 I Neutral Workolace Investigations l. Preliminary Discussion Linda Chung (?Chung") interviewed? and thereafter prepared this summary. Neither party electronically recorded the interview. Chung told- that Chung was retained as a neutral third-party to gather facts pertaining to the overall operational health of Shakopee Public Schools Chung provided- her contact information.1 She also provided the Data Practices Notice (?Tennessen Warning") to review and sign. - stated that. understood Chung's role, including the fact that Chung was not providing legal counsel to. or to the District. did not have concerns about Chung's ability to be a fair and neutral fact-gatherer.- consented to the interview, agreed to provide complete, truthful information and stated that there was nothing that would affect or impair-ability to recall or provide information at the time of the interview. Chung told- that Michelle Kenney of Knutson, Deans, PA, the District?s legal counsel, would take steps to preserve confidentiality consistent with its legal obligations. Chung advised. that the law prohibits retaliation against a person who comes forward with concerns. - agreed to report retaliation concerns to Michelle Kenney directly.2 1 In addition to providing Chung?s contact information, it set forth the following expectations intended to preserve the integrity of the fact-gathering: Cooperate fully; Provide truthful, complete information; Not record the interview; Not retaliate against someone who comes forward with concerns, participates in the fact-gathering or associates with someone who has concerns or participates in the fact-gathering; report safety or retaliation concerns. 1 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0095 Neutral Worknlace Investigations 1. Improper use ofpurchasing card (P-card}: - I witnessed Thompson purchase alcohol on his P-card on at least two occasions. When he attempted to put I drink on the card as well, declined and used - own personal card to pay for. drink. ON Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV01 00 Neutral Worknlace Investigations Thompson does not turn in itemized receipts for travel or personal expenses. 7 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV01 01 Neutral Worknlace Investigations Vl. Suggestions for Improvement With respect to the stakeholders. suggests_ the following: Go out and talk more with teachers, principles and the community at large to repair and rebuild relationships; 0 Be more open and transparent about what's going on in the District; and VII. Closing Comments 9 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0103 Neutral Workplace Investigations - can only hope it can move in a more positive direction from here on out. hope it can happen. The employees, everyone, deserve better."11 I Conclusion - confirmed that. had provided truthful information and had a full and complete opportunity to communicate facts helpful to the fact gathering. - said that there were no questions that. thought Chung would ask, but did not. Chung thanked- for. cooperation and reviewed the confidentiality and non- retaliation instructions again before concluding the interview. D-d p?L Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0104 Interview Summary of Rod Thompson May 5, 2017 (9:00 3:05 pm)1 and May 30, 2017 (1:20-1:45 pm)2 Preliminary Discussion I. Linda Chung (“Chung”) interviewed Rod Thompson (“Thompson”) and thereafter prepared this summary. Neither party electronically recorded the interview. Chung told Thompson that Chung was retained as a neutral third-party to gather facts pertaining to the overall operational health of Shakopee Public Schools (“District”). Chung provided Thompson her contact information.3 She also provided the Data Practices Notice (“Tennessen Warning”) to review and sign, a copy of which was provided to Thompson. Thompson stated that he understood Chung’s role, including the fact that Chung was not providing legal counsel to him or to the District. Thompson did not have concerns about Chung’s ability to be a fair and neutral fact-gatherer. Thompson consented to the interview, agreed to provide complete, truthful information and stated that there was nothing that would affect or impair his ability to recall or provide information at the time of the interview. Chung told Thompson that Michelle Kenney of Knutson, Flynn & Deans, P.A., the District’s legal counsel, would take steps to preserve confidentiality consistent with its legal obligations. Chung advised him that the law prohibits retaliation against a person who comes forward with concerns. Thompson agreed to promptly report retaliation concerns to Michelle Kenney directly. 1 3 In addition to providing Chung’s contact information, it set forth the following expectations intended to preserve the integrity of the fact-gathering: Cooperate fully; Provide truthful, complete information; Not record the interview; Not retaliate against someone who comes forward with concerns, participates in the fact-gathering or associates with someone who has concerns or participates in the fact-gathering; Promptly report safety or retaliation concerns. Confidential/Privileged Communication 1 NV0105 I Neutral Workplace Investigations {Improper use ofpurchasing card (P?card}: Thompson admits he has used the P-card for personal use, like alcoholic beverages and Amazon purchases. As ofAugust 1, 2016, Thompson has reimbursed the District in full in the amount of $3,500.00 in the following categories:13 0 Alcoholic beverages Thompson claims he is careful about asking servers to put alcohol on a separate check when dining at a work event or while at an out of town conference, but sometimes it?s put on one check by mistake. 0 Amazon account In 2015/2016, all ofhis personal purchases from Amazon were charged to the P-card by mistake, rather than his own personal credit card. 12 13 On May 30, 2016, Thompson informed Chung that another personal expense charged to the P-card was discovered just last week. Thompson and his wife had traveled to Nashville one time on a personal matter but their airline fees were charged to the P-card by mistake. As soon as he became aware ofthe error, Thompson immediately reimbursed the District. 14 Thompson was asked at this point not to reveal any attorney/client discussions. 11 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV01 1 5 I Neutral Worknlace Investigations VII. Suggestions for Improvement Thompson hopes to see some training and executive level coaching as a means to improve the organizational climate ofthe District. He sees the need for further professional development for himself and thinks the staff would be open to it as 17 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV01 21 Neutral Workplace Investigations well. He wants to "give it a shot" and says he?s only got one more chance to turn things around.16 He's also learned the hard way to have the teachers on their side. X. Conclusion Thompson confirmed that he had provided truthful information and had a full and complete opportunity to communicate facts helpful to the fact gathering. Thompson said that there were no questions that he thought Chung would ask, but did not. Chung thanked Thompson for his cooperation and reviewed the confidentiality and non-retaliation instructions again before concluding the interview. XI. Addendum ya 0? - p-x 8 Con?dential/Privileged Communication NV0122 3. Use of Dr. Thompson?s card for alcohol. On two occasions, Rod put alcohol on his card. The ?rst time he was going to put our alcohol on his card asked him not to put mine. He told not to wor he would write a check to reimburse the district. The second time was gomg to put it on at Just pay or mine with my personal card. He said that he would 'ust ut in on his room account and separate it later. did ex ect to be reimbursed for a co 0 some Ime wro a NV0159