WARREN SCHOOLS Improve district, board tells top official

The superintendent's performance is in the 'good, competent' category.
By DENISE DICK
VINDICATOR TRUMBULL STAFF
WARREN -- City school board members point to the need for school district improvement in a performance evaluation of Superintendent Betty J. English.
Each board member recently evaluated English, in several areas from relationship with the board and staff relationships to educational leadership and personal qualities.
To improve effectiveness, board members wrote that she should improve test scores and graduation and attendance goals.
"Betty [English] needs to continue working with the administration and staff to improve the academic performance of our students," one comment reads. "This must be the No. 1 priority of this district."
Another suggestion says, "Change her attitude/ego."
Possible scores ranged from the lowest of one, for "needs much improvement," to the highest of six, for "outstanding."
The only copy of the evaluation at the board of education's administration building was one that English had written notes on. When The Vindicator completed its public records request to obtain the evaluation, a school board member had to bring in a copy.
Averaged scores
Board President Linda Metzendorf compiled the scores and averaged the composite out to a 3.9, placing English in the "good, competent" category. That classification means that she "frequently meets standards."
Board members also were allowed to make comments for the final evaluation dated Aug. 17. The comments don't indicate who wrote them.
"I'm proud of the progress we've made in the district," English said, pointing to improvements in test scores and attendance and passage of a bond issue last year.
Metzendorf also considers it a good evaluation.
English received no scores in either the highest or the lowest categories.
English ranked a "superior," score, in working with the press, encouraging pupils to understand school policies, maintaining professional relationships with pupils, attire and grooming, effective devotion of time and energy to her job, public speaking and maintaining professional development.
Board members also said she "needs slight improvement" in area of seeking and accepting constructive criticism, having a harmonious relationship with the board, treating all board members alike and maintaining emotional stability in the full range of her professional activities.
denise_dick@vindy.com