District Addresses Markham-Cousins Dismissal, Pratt Investigation

Editor's Note: The following was recently published on Washburn High School's website regarding the reassignment of former principal Carol Markham-Cousins and the search for her replacement.

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We understand that this situation is challenging for both the Washburn community and the Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) community as a whole. We hope the community understands that MPS is limited by law in what we can say about this matter. Even if the subjects of the information speak out, MPS cannot comment unless the individuals give us permission to make the information public. Private personnel and student matters have been the subject of social media and mass media coverage. Although these reports are often filled with inaccuracies or half-truths, MPS is unable to discuss the matters.

A number of events over this current year have distracted from the learning environment at Washburn. The decision to reassign Ms. Markham-Cousins was made to ensure a positive learning environment and the successful completion of the school year. 

What happened on April 8?

On April 8 upwards of several hundred Washburn students participated in a walk out to demonstrate support for Washburn staff member Dan Pratt. The protest Facebook page indicated that a large number of non-students intended to participate in the demonstration. As a precautionary measure, Washburn was placed on a code yellow the day of the walk out. MPS and Washburn worked to ensure that the demonstration remained safe for students and staff members, and caused as little disruption to the school day as possible. Students continued to protest the week of April 8 through various means, both during school and outside of school.

Why did students protest?

MPS understands that students participated in demonstrations the week of April 8 in response to rumors about Washburn staff member Dan Pratt’s employment with MPS. Students were demonstrating support for Mr. Pratt. 

Why is Mr. Pratt being investigated by the school district?

MPS is currently investigating a private personnel matter concerning Mr. Pratt. His employment at Washburn continues. We are unable to share any information related to the situation to members of the public without Mr. Pratt’s consent, as this information is considered private personnel data. It is important for students and parents to know that decisions related to Mr. Pratt’s employment with MPS have been and continue to be made by the school district. 

Did Washburn purchase a scoreboard?

The ordering and purchase of the scoreboard, and the school district’s liability for the scoreboard, is a matter of dispute. The public should know that no money – school district or otherwise - has been paid for a scoreboard.

What happens if students protest during school?

We support the students’ rights to participate in the democratic process and provide non-disruptive, peaceful demonstrations in support of their beliefs. In fact, we encourage such activities.  At the same time, schools are first places of learning and we need to protect the rights of students each day who come to learn. 

Parents and students should know that if a student chooses to leave school as part of a protest, the absence will not be excused, just like other absences that are unexcused. He or she will not be allowed into school or to participate in after-school activities the day of the unexcused absence. 

Why didn’t staff members, students and parents know about Ms. Markham-Cousins’ departure before the media?

MPS works to inform staff members, parents and students first in communicating information to stakeholders. School district staff members planned to meet with Washburn staff members the morning after the decision was made. We regret that information found its way to the media overnight before MPS could communicate about Ms. Markham-Cousins’ departure from Washburn with parents, students and staff. 

Did the students’ protest cause the principal to be reassigned?

No.  While we are mindful of the views of parents, students, staff and other stakeholders of our schools, MPS does not make personnel decisions in reaction to student or parent protests or when someone or some group is upset. We want to emphasize that the decision to reassign Ms. Markham-Cousins is not related to any specific investigation or act. Ms. Markham-Cousins has not been fired from the school district.

What will Ms. Markham-Cousins be doing now?

Ms. Markham-Cousins continues to work as a Principal on Special Assignment, assisting the Associate Superintendents on a number of projects. Ms. Markham-Cousins has been a strong turnaround leader for Washburn and we would like to recognize her efforts during her tenure at the school. Ms. Carol Markham-Cousins has been and will continue to be a passionate advocate for students and families. 

How will the next Washburn principal be decided?

As MPS begins the process of identifying a new principal for Washburn, we will seek a strong instructional leader equipped to support the academic achievement of all students, who promotes effective teaching and learning and is adept at engaging the community around student success. Over the next few months, MPS will work with Washburn families as we select a new leader for the school.

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Related articles:

• Parent: Washburn Protests Are Giving Students a Look at 'Democracy in Action'
• 'goodbye mrs. cousins': Response to Principal's Ouster at Washburn HS
• SW Journal Reports Principal Carol Markham-Cousins Out at Washburn HS
• Dan Pratt Supporters Begin Online Petition
• Students Talk Washburn HS Walkout on Twitter
• Washburn HS under Code Yellow as Students Protest AD Firing

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