A couple weeks ago, an investigation revealed some questions about how the Texas Education Agency handles contracts and Robert Scott, the agency’s second in command, was alleged to have engaged in some violations of contracting policies.

Over the last couple of weeks, the details have become even more interesting. 

It was alleged that there was a case of mistaken identity.  Rather than the violations occurring by Robert Scott, they were committed by a Rob Scott (who also is in education).  Rob Scott denies the allegations.

Yesterday, the Dallas Morning News’s online site reported that the Texas State Auditor is looking into the situation to determine what has occurred and whether any rules were broken.

Is anyone benefiting from this debacle?  TEA, Rob Scott, Robert Scott, and the investigators are not doing anyone any favors here.  It is a bit like having functional areas in a company pointing fingers at each other…  The more finger pointing each one does, the worse everyone looks. 

It is time to get beyond this issue.  TEA representatives need to work and play well together.  Here is one way for our public servants to fulfill their obligation to the residents of Texas and their children… 

First, help us understand what has occurred.

Second, accept responsibility for your roles in the situation and the resulting media feeding frenzy.

Third, implement the punishment that is associated with the actions that are involved under agency rules.

Fourth, the state employees who are throwing out the red herrings, if any, should reimburse the state for the costs they have caused.

Fifth, a plan should be developed to ensure this issue does not arise again.

Sixth, TEA needs to move on with the business of educating children.   

Is there anyone who would be harmed by this plan?  Is this plan anything other than what is in the best interest of all parties, as well as the children of Texas? 

 

Filed by Coleen Davis at 11:32 am under Corporate Citizenship, Leadership, Solving Problems