Governor Rick Perry is backing Robert Scott to replace Shirley Neeley at the Texas Education Agency (TEA).  Currently, Mr. Scott is second in command.  In the normal course of events, this would not attract very much attention. 

As reported in today’s Dallas Morning News, an internal investigation by TEA found that Mr. Scott and others may have violated TEA rules in several contracting decisions.  In one case, Mr. Scott allegedly extended a one year $100,000 contract without consulting other TEA officials.

This is an important issue for a variety of reasons.  When contract decisions are made, state agencies spend your tax dollars.  Now, maybe Mr. Scott did something wrong.  Perhaps, his actions were appropriate.  In light of the investigation and report, should the Governor be backing Mr. Scott at this point?  

When the leaders act in questionable ways, it sets the standard for others in the organization.  I am wondering about consistency.  Suppose a lower ranking employee engaged in the same conduct that Mr. Scott did.  Would the person be getting the Governor’s support, or would the person be given a pink slip? 

What is the message that people wishing to do business with the Texas Education Agency are hearing from this situation? 

Filed by Coleen Davis at 5:42 pm under Leadership, Negotiations, Solving Problems, Sourcing