Seattle Schools Community Forum

From SPS Communications and Superintendent Banda: I’m very pleased to announce that Kenneth Gotsch has been hired as Assistant Superintendent for Business and Finance. He brings extensive experience to the district and will join us  on December 2 , filling the position vacated by Duggan Harman. As Assistant Superintendent for Business and Finance, Mr. Gotsch will provide leadership and expertise in financial management and in the business and finance operations of the district. He is responsible for ensuring an effective management and budget system is in place to support schools. Reporting directly to the Superintendent, Mr. Gotsch will oversee the departments of finance (Budget, Payroll, Grants, Accounting, Purchasing, Contracts) and audit response, as well as provide leadership for financial matters related to Human Resources (Employee/Labor Relations, Compensation and Benefits, Substitute Services, Employment, Employee Assistance Program, Leadership Development and the ...

I cannot print the word that came out of my mouth when I saw this from the Superintendent.  It is very, very upsetting because Harmon was truly one of the good guys and one of the most calm and dedicated employees at headquarters.  I had kind of thought he might be promoted to Bob's position.  With him leaving (and Bob Boesche), I have deep concerns for the district.  Something has to change to stem this flow of good people (and I don't think it has a whole lot to do with the Board but I'm sure that's how it will get spun).  And, I have seen a few names for Bob Boesche's job and it's worrying.   It feels like people are using SPS as some kind of stop-gap place on their career ladders (but I do not mean that about Duggan, obviously). It is with mixed feelings that I announce that Duggan Harman has resigned, effective August 31. Duggan has accepted the role of Chief of Staff for Superintendent Susan Enfield in Highline School District. I am consid...