Investigation 731

Brenda Smith

Jasper High School Administrative Intern

Investigators: Bart Rosebure and Larry Frazier

4-7-10

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Plano ISD Personnel Report Page 1 of 1

Plano ISO Personnel Report

Personal Information
Name: Smith, Brenda
SSN:
File #: 731

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 Plano Independent School District
Investigative Report Form

CONFIDENTIAL

Investigative Index Control Number: 731

Date Investigative Report Completed: 4-7-10

Investigator Assigned: Bart Rosebure and Larry Frazier

Investigative Report Completed By: Bart Rosebure and Larry Frazier

Specific Issues To Be Investigated:

i. Did a Plano ISD employee fail to follow a directive?

2. Was a Plano ISD employee dishonest with a Plano ISD executive?
3. Did a Plano ISD employee inappropriately communicate personnel
information to another employee?
4. Did a Plano ISD employee make a malicious statement about another

employee without factual basis?

5. If said actions occurred, were they a violation of district policy?

District Employee Accused: Brenda Smith Employee ID #:

OVERVIEW:

On or about 6-26-09, Jasper High School conducted employment interviews for the
position of Assistant PrincipaL. Plano Senior High Sub-School Principal Tracy Ryerson
was granted an interview. The interview was conducted by a committee of staff members
from Jasper High SchooL. It was alleged that Jasper High School Administrative Intern

Brenda Smith provided Ms. Ryerson with information regarding the interviews. Ms.
Smith was not on the interview committee, and it is believed that Ms. Smith obtained
information regarding the interviews from Jasper High School Assistant Principal Dennis
Randall Chaddick.

On or about 3-1-10, Area Assistant Superintendent Patty Meyer and Executive Director
of Human Resources Tamira Griffin spoke to Ms. Ryerson.

On or about 2-24-10, Mrs. Meyer and Mrs. Griffin met with Jasper High School
Administrative Intern Brenda Smith. It was alleged that Ms. Smith was dishonest and
failed to comply with a directive from Mrs. Griffin.
Ms. Smith was placed on administrative leave, and an investigation was authorized.

INVESTIGATIVE RESULTSIWITNESSES AND TO WHAT THEY

WILL TESTIFY:

On or about 3-22-10, Mr. Frazier and I interviewed Plano Senior High Sub-School
Principal Tracy Ryerson. Prior to this investigation Ms. Ryerson submitted a written
statement and her cell phone records to Mrs. Meyer and Mrs. Griffin. I displayed a copy
of the written statement and cell phone records to Ms. Ryerson. She recognized the
statement and cell phone records as hers. Ms. Reyerson indicated that she voluntarily
submitted her cell phone records for this investigation.

During the interview Ms. Ryerson indicated that she felt the need for protection. Mr.
Frazier and I attempted to ascertain why Ms. Ryerson feIt like she needed protection.
When we interviewed Ms. Ryerson she indicated that she did not have access to the press
box at the football games. Ms. Ryerson said that she did not have computer access to
computer software at PSHS that she needed. Ms. Ryerson said that Associate Principal
Glen Davis yelled at her. Ms. Ryerson indicated that an incident occurred in her personal
life that she felt Sub-School Principal Karin Ball was insensitive about, regarding Ms.
Ryerson's attendance at work.

Ms. Ryerson indicated that she felt like Jasper High School Administrative Intern Brenda
Smith was trying to get her to leave PSHS so that Ms. Smith could take Ms. Ryerson's
position at Plano Senior High SchooL.

Ms. Ryerson indicated that Ms. Smith told her that Mr. Chaddick was providing Ms.
Smith with information regarding the people interviewing for the Jasper High School
assistant principal position.

Ms. Ryerson indicated that she was uncomfortable with the amount of communication
that Ms. Smith had with her regarding the interview process. Ms. Ryerson said that she
spoke to Mrs. Ball about the information. Ms. Ryerson said that she and Mrs. Ball called
Jasper High School Principal Jeff Gasaway and notified him that Ms. Smith shared
information about the interviews that had been conducted at Jasper High School for the
assistant principal position.

Ms. Ryerson indicated that she was asked to speak to Mrs. Meyers and Mrs. Griffin
regarding the matter.

Ms. Ryerson submitted the following statement to Mrs. Griffin. " Dear Ms. Griffin, 1 am
writing this statement in response to our meeting with Patty Meyer this afternoon. I am
requesting protection from any retaliation in relation to this matter with not only Brenda
Smith but people 1 currently work with. 1 also do not wish to have any repercussions. It
is my wish to promote through the district and to be successfùl in my career. My loyalties
are to Plano Independent School District. It is not my intention to cause harm to Brenda.
Brenda may have perceived her actions as an attempt to assist me. The situation has

bothered me consistently throughout the school year for reasons 1 explained during our
meeting. I am providing copies of my cell phone bill to show the continuous contact. I
am also requesting an open records request on my office phone, 469-752-9412. I believe
the initial call made to me was on this phone. I am also requesting an open records
request on Brenda Smith's office phone to show I made no attempt to contact her prior to
her initial call to me. This should clear up any misconception on who made initial
contact and when.

I have rewritten my statement after our meeting to clear up many questions. lfirst met
Brenda Smith at the Beginning Administrator Meetings with Larry Guinn. I did not sit

with or socialize with Brenda during these meetings. I sat with Johnny Cotton from
Plano East and Marlyss from Plano West. I left directly after each meeting and reported
back to campus. I recall one specific time when I saw Brenda in truancy court; however,
often speak with other
do not recall having any specific conversation with her. I

administrators whom 1 do not know personally due to the amount of time we spend
waiting for our students to go before the judge. I do know I did not establish a social

friendship with Brenda nor did I contact her by phone. My next encounter with Brenda
was when she represented Jasper High School at a Plano Senior High School meeting.
The discussion surrounded around students who would attend Plano during the 2009-10
school year and required special attention. Brenda presented her list of students and to
my knowledge, left the campus. I did not socialize with her or meet with her after this
meeting.
I attended the TASSP meeting with Dr. Dean and Plano administrators during the first
two weeks of June. Dr. Dean advised me of an Assistant Principal of Curriculum
position at Jasper High School. He stated he felt I was a good match for this position
and would support me in interviewing for this position. I spoke with Jeff
Gasaway during
a professional development session. He stated he would contact me when we returned to
Plano to schedule the interview. Brenda contacted me after the interview was scheduled
and stated she would assist me in planning for the interview and assisted me in
answering questions. She discussed her experiences regarding interviews at Plano East
and what she perceived Jasper High School was looking for. After reviewing my cell

phone bill, it appears as though this call was made to my office phone. 1 thought Brenda
was trying to be helpful since she was friends with Tracy Franco and Tracy was aware 1
submitted my resume as a candidate for the position. Mr. Gasaway cancelled the first
appointment and stated he would need to reschedule. I cannot recall the exact timeline;
however, didfind a callfrom Brenda to me on June 22,2009 at 8:30am. lam unclear as
to if this is the initial call or the call she made after Mr. Gasaway rescheduled. My cell

phone bills support I did not contact Brenda at any time prior to this date in the month of
June. I also provided my April and May 2009 bills to support the fact 1 never contacted
Brenda in any way or form prior to my interview.
Brenda contacted me several times prior to the interview. She contacted me to find out
why the initial interview was cancelled. I stated 1 didn't know why. I communicated that
lines but do know
Mr. Gasaway stated he would reschedule. I do not recall the exact time

Brenda contacted me to state that Mr. Gasaway was interviewing two African American
females, a Hispanic female from Garland or Mesquite, and me. She also shared one of
the females was a dean at the middle school level. I am not sure if this is true but these
 c.::J - $52, (I I

comments led me to talk to Tracy Franco. I considered removing my name from the list
because Brenda shared they were looking for a minority. I believe the man that left was
a Hispanic male. I told Tracy and Karin Ball I did not want to expend the time and
energy in preparing for an interview if Jasper was looking for a minority to balance the
team. Tracy assured me I was qualified and, in her opinion, had a very good chance at
obtaining the po~ition. Brenda contacted me several times prior to my interview. I
responded because I truly felt she was trying to help me. I was excited at the opportunity

to work at Jasper High School. She communicated her desire to work at Plano Senior
High School and stated that Dr. Dean and Tracy would hire her if I got thejob at Jasper.
She said it was a win-win situation. I was not in the position to know if Dr. Dean would
hire her if I obtained the position at Jasper but I am sure I agreed this was a positive
situation. I believe the interview occurred on June 26, 2009. Please confirm this with
Mr. Gasaway. I am relying on phone records to prompt me with the dates. Brenda
called me on June 26, 2009 at I ;03pm. I do not recall specifics about the call other than
she told me that Mr. Gasaway had isolated her from this process. She stated that Randall

was calling her between interviews to update her on what was happening. Please
understand I have no way of confirming if Randall actually did this. This is what I was
told. I clearly recall Brenda telling me the Hispanic female was doing a phone interview
while driving her daughter to college. I assumed this meant I did not need to worry.
Brenda contacted me several times during the day while I was preparing for the
interview. I did return calls I missed. 1 do not recall any other specific comments being
made. I was so excited and nervous for this interview and honestly wanted the position. I
thought she was trying to help but found it odd she was talking to Randall and that Mr.
Gasaway had so removed her from the interview process. I do not recall how 1 learned
that a situation occurred between Brenda and Mr. Gasaway last spring but do believe
she made mention to it during the phone calls. I do not have specifics as to what
happened. I just knew of a situation. Brenda sent several friendly text messages
inquiring on how the interview went. I communicated 1 felt it went well and that Mr.
Gasaway stated he would contact me on Monday. I do recall Brenda stating that Randall

told her that Mr. Gasaway shared with the interview team that he interviewed me when I
was going through the principal pool interview process, 1 interviewed well, and I
appeared to be the best candidate (at least on paper). Brenda's communication made
me to believe I more than likely ascertained the position at Jasper. I do remember
Brenda asking me to call her on Monday when I heard something. I corresponded with
Brenda due to the fact I thought the communication was genuine and encouraging. I
spoke with Mr. Gasaway at or around 2:42 pm. I took the news that 1 did not obtain the
p.ositJ2n very hard. 1 truly thought I interviewed well and would be selected. I was at my
(l i)house throughout the entire process. I was very discouraged. Brenda and I spoke
frequently on Monday as I anticipated Mr. Gasaway's call. I texted her that I did not get
the position and was asked to call her to talk about what happened. This was a brief call

due to the fact I took the news hard. Brenda was very supportive and stated she felt bad.

1 included the entire phone bill to show there was no additional contact throughout this
time frame. 1 told myliiiiiiiièind boyfriend 1 felt uncomfortable with the content of many of
her text messages. Both have stated you are welcome to call them as to their recollection
of the events. Myliiìiiiiiiiiiiiame is Ë 18 Her phone number i.illl lJMy
boyfriend's name '(;R;y"'bert Garcia. His number is 972-979-7304. Both individuals know
 CJ-::'~'" I

1 did not have a social friendship with Brenda prior to this process. I honestly looked
forward to the opportunity to work with Mr. Gasaway and Jasper High School. While I
took the failure to obtain the position hard, I understood Mr. Gasaway and his team
determined I was not the best fit. 1 understood that; however, felt like 1 was built up to
believe I was the best candidate by Brenda.
I did not see Brenda until the principal meetings at the beginning of the school year. She
sat with me during part of the meeting and discussed her desire to become an assistant
principal. She asked me to not share what occurred during the Jasper interview with
anyone - repeatedly. I believe text messages were sent in encouragement at ascertaining
an assistant principal position but over time it became clear it was her main objective to
get me to leave Plano so she could fill my position. She has repeatedly shared with me
that if ¡left Dr. Dean and Tracy will put her in my position. During this timeframe I
didn't find it odd she wished to return to Plano Senior High School to work as an
assistant principal. Ijust didn't know how much she wanted my position. Brenda
periodically made contact with me throughout the school year. The only time she made
contact was to sharejob openings she found. It made me uncomfortable. I shared this
with Karin Ball, my secretary, my
if iJand my boyfriend. The job openings were not
limited to Plano. They were outside Plano also. I recall one conversation where I told

Brenda I was not interested in leaving Plano at this time (district or school). I was happy
and wanted some consistency. Brenda shared with me she talked to Dusty Jennings. She
shared that if she didn't take my position, maybe she could take Dusty's when he retired.

She stated Dusty told her he was going to Austin to look into retirement. I did not share
or discuss this with Dusty. I did notfeel it was my place. I also recall Brenda
forwarding an email to me regarding a position in curriculum. Brenda forwarded an
email Mr. Gasaway sent out to the staff making them aware of the position. Brenda sent
it because she felt it was right up my alley. At this point, 1 had had it with the emails and
the soliciting of my job. 1 told Brenda I couldn't afford a pay cut and wasn't interested.
Ajler meeting with you, I tried recalling a conversation I may have had with Brenda in
regards to a position in McKinney ISD. I am not 100% sure I actually told Brenda this.
Brenda and I have had limited contact since last summer. I do remember telling Brenda
1 wasn't interested leaving the district because I had no desire to start over. Tracy
Franco called me about the McKinney position. She wanted to know if I was going to
apply. I told her that I knew the new superintendent. I worked for Dr. Kennedy and Dr.
Davis in Allen. Tracy and I both live in Allen and it is not out of the norm to discuss
Allen ISD. Tracy asked me if I was going to wait it out and be patient for a promotion. I
told her yes. We discussed me contacting Roxanne Burleson to discuss my career
aspirations in Plano. 1 have yet to do this. I do know Tracy and Brenda are good friends
but 1 am not 100% sure I told Brenda. Brenda called me a few weeks back to discuss an
interview she had at Shepton. She wanted my thoughts on the fact the principal told her
she'd let her know in a day but then called her back and stated it would be longer.
Brenda called me shortly afterwards and did not leave a message. 1 called her back to
see what she needed and have not heard from her again. 1 lessened communication with
her throughout the school year as it became more and more uncomfortable to talk to her.
The only purpose for the calls or text messages was to determine when 1 was planning on
leaving Piano. I had no intentions in leaving Plano nor have 1 made any strides to do so.
 CJ-52,1I1

What I thought was once genuine, friendly communication soon became apparent as
attempts to assist me in leaving Plano.

It is very possible Brenda's perception was she was being helpful. I understand that. A
culmination of events led me to feel as though I was not wanted at Plano (as I discussed
with you in person). This is the only reason why I shared this with Karin Ball several
months later. While I felt uncomfortable with Brenda's actions, 1 didn't want Mr.
Gasaway to feel obligated to hire me due to the situation. I felt it would be more
professional to move forward and give 100% to my career. Brenda's actions have
deterred me from applying for other positions in the district. I want to be promoted
based on my knowledge of my job, how I perform my job, and my reputation as a
professional.
I am willing to cooperate and assist Mr. Gasaway in any way possible; however, I fear
retaliation and repercussions. I am requesting protection under the Whistleblower.
Please assist me in ensuring this protection. I would like to be assured that Brenda not
communicate this situation to anyone in the district other than her direct supervisors. It
is of great concern she will share information that is not accurate in nature with people I
work with. I enjoy my position in Plano ISD and would like to continue working in a
positive environment.

It is not my place to judge Brenda. I am uncomfortable with the situation and find this
process to be extremely stressful. I take pride in my ability to work as a team player and
get tÌlong with my co workers. I felt Mr. Gasaway deserved to know if the confidentiality

of his interview process was undermined by Brenda; however, being new to the district
did not know what avenues to explore for help. I also did not want Ms. Meyer or Mr.
Gasaway to feel 1 was putting them in a position to hire me due to a complaint. My
Lili\and I determined it was best to leave well enough alone and move forward with my
career. I appreciate your assistance and willingness to talk to me and help me through
the process.

li.ank you f&flour time and energy in meeting in this matter. My cell phone number is
~ .~ifYou have any additional questions."

Ms. Ryerson provided Mrs. Griffin with copies of several emailsthatMs.Smith sent Ms.
On 11-16-09,atapproximately4:23 p.m. Ms.
Ryerson on the Plano ISD email system.

Smith sent Ms. Ryerson an emaiL. The email stated, "FYI...I know you miss worldng in
curriculum. Look who just resigned??? Thought of you... and our recent conversation of
you missing this kind ofstufJ... AND you could still stay with PISD. It wasforwarded to
me from Mr. Gasaway to our admin staff. Penny for your thoughts... maybe God is
looking out for the two of us ...Brenda. "

On 11-19-09, at approximately 10:37 a.m., Ms. Smith sent Ms. Ryerson an emaiL. The
email stated, "Hey Tracy, Did you get this email? It's a curriculum position within our
district. See below....Brenda. "

On 1-4-10, at approximately 3:39 p.m., Ms. Smith sent Ms. Ryerson an emaiL. The email
stated, "Are you applyingfor the Renner Middle School Asst. Principal? I hear it's for a
curriculum position. Just curious. I did.. but I have no experience in it so I would just
welcome the opportunity to interview. Who knows?? But.I know you would probably get
it due to your back ground. How was your winter break?"

On 1-4-10, at 4:08 p.m., Ms. Smith sent Ms. Ryerson an emaiL. The email stated,
"wow...! think I recall her coming from that back ground but wasn't sure. I know you
are lookingfor a curriculum job so I thought about you...as I always do when looking
for jobs for myself. I would LOVE to come work with you. I'll have to pray that the Lord
blesses her with it and perhaps I could come home and work with you! ! !!! We would
have so much fun!! "

On or about 3-24-10, Security Police Specialist Larry Frazier and I interviewed Mrs.
Meyer. Mrs. Meyer submitted a written statement. Mrs. Meyer stated, "Tamira Griffin,
Brenda Smith and I were in attendance for this meeting. Tamira asked Brenda if she had
been in contact with Tracey Ryerson regarding the assistant principal interviews at
Jasper HS in June of 2009. Brenda stated she had not as she was not on the interview
panel and she had already left for the summer. It was asked of her if anyone on the panel
had contact with her regarding the candidates and/or anything that went on in the
interviews? Brenda said, "No." Tamira asked did anyone on the panel e-mail you, call

you, text you or did you e-mail, call or text anyone on the panel regarding the candidates
and how the interviews were going? Tamira asked Brenda if Jeff Gasaway had contacted
her, if Randall Chaddick had contacted her or anyone else on the panel? Brenda replied,
"No, " to each of these questions. Brenda did state that she could not remember exactly,
she may have contacted Tracey Ryerson about 2 or 3 times regarding job opportunities,
but she did not tell her anything about candidates and/or the interview process.

At one point in the meeting Brenda handed me a packet, log, of thoughts on concerns
she had with Jeff Gasaway and his leadership as well as the administrative team at
Jasper HS. I told Brenda that this was not what this meeting was about, but I would
read it and both Tamira and I would review it at a later date. Should there be anything
we saw as concerning it would be followed-up on. I also told Brenda I would get with
her prior to spring break regarding the information she handed to me. (Both Tamira and
I read this separately and agreed there was no information or concern expressed to
address.! have not had the opportunity to follow-up Brenda as this investigation is still

being Conducted and did not want to confuse the issues.)

Prior to the conclusion of the meeting Tamira gave Brenda the directive to discuss
this no one. Tamira said you cannot talk to anyone about this. Brenda stated she
felt bad is Tracey Ryerson was upset because she thought Brenda was trying to
get her job and Plano SHS. Tamira was specific is saying you cannot contact Tracey
to discuss this at all.

Brenda did ask me ifher boss knew about this? I said, "Yes, but he did not initiate this
concern." Tamira did. tell Brenda that ifshe remembered anything else to let us know.

Brenda didfollow-up with an e-mail on 2/24/10 at 5:58 p.m. addressed to both

Tamira Griffin and me stating that she was embarrassed with unedited version of the
information she had given to me at the meeting regarding administrative team and Jeff

She also said that since her last entry things had improved and turned around for the
"good. "

Mrs. Meyer submitted a statement regarding a meeting that she and Mrs. Griffin had with
Mr. Chaddick. Mrs. Meyer sated, "Tamira Griffin, Randall Chaddick, and I were in
attendance at this meeting. Tamira shared with Randall that we trying to work through
some information and that we were hopefùl he would be able to provide us with pieces
that would help clarifý the situation. We asked Randall if he was part of the Jasper HS
interview panel for assistant principal in June 2009? Randall said he was on the panel.
We asked him if he had at anytime visited with Brenda about the candidates that the
panel was interviewing? Randall said, no, she was not on the panel and she was gone
from the campus for the summer at that time. Tamira asked Randall if he had
communicated in any way to Brenda regading the interviews? She asked bye-mail, text,
phone calls whether it was from him to her or perhaps she had contacted him? Randall

said he really did not remember, but he did not think that any communication had taken
place at that time. Tamira was specific with the example of one candidate that had a
conference interview because she was driving he child to college. Tamira asked how he
thought Brenda might have gotten that information. He said he did not know; he also
said because he could not remember they may have visited, but it had been so long ago
he could not say.

Tamira asked Randall if he had heard anythingfrom Brenda regarding her meeting with
us. He said he had gone into her office when she returned to the campus after the
meeting because she had told him prior to coming over here that she and I had a meeting.
She was hopeful or had thought it was to visit about moving to another campus next year.
She told him after he asked that she could not talk about it, but he might get called in as
well.

Tamira told Randall if he recalled anything else to let us know. Randall did follow-up
with an e-mail dated 3/4/10 at 5: 29 p.m. He just stated that he and Brenda have visited
on the phone so as not to use work time to discuss Brenda feeling hurt and discouraged
at times. He once again said he did not remember many conversations once she left for
the summer until they returned to work. "

On or about 3-24-10, Mr. Frazier and I interviewed Mrs. Griffin. Mrs. Griffin submitted
a written statement. Mrs. Griffin stated, "On or about the morning of February 24, 2010,
Patty Meyer, Assistant Superintendent for the West Cluster, and 1 met with Jasper
Administrative Intern, Brenda Smith. We discussed with Ms. Smith the concerns of Plano
Senior High School Assistant Principal, Tracy Reyerson, regarding communication from
Ms. Smith to her in regard to job opportunities. Ms. Reyerson had expressed that shefelt

Ms. Smith wanted to return to work at Plano Senior High School and that if Ms. Reyerson
were to get another job it would open up a spot for Ms. Smith to move into.
In the course of the conversation with Ms. Smith, I gave her a verbal directive to not
discuss our conversation with anyone other than Ms. Meyer or myself. I asked Ms. Smith
if she understood my directive and she stated that she did. Ms. Smith asked Ms. Meyer if

herprincipal, Jeff Gasaway, was aware of her meeting with us. Ms. Meyer told Ms.
Smith that Mr. Gasaway was aware we were meeting. At no time did Ms. Smith ask
about discussing the issue with Mr. Gasaway, nor was permission granted for her to do
so.

Ms. Smith indicated that she did not know Ms. Reyerson well and had probally only
communicated with her two to four times total. Ms. Smith did say that she had seen Ms.
Reyerson in truancy court and at district meetings. "

On or about 3-12-10, Mr. Frazier and I interviewed Ms. Smith. When Mr. Frazier and I
asked Ms. Smith about who gave her information regarding the interviews she indicated
that Mr. Chaddick communicated with her regarding the interviewees, including telling
her that one person had to complete the interview by telephone. Ms. Smith submitted a
written statement. Ms. Smith stated, "3/24/10 Brenda Smith -Responsesfrom 3/12/10
with Larry Frasier and Burt Rosebure, PISD Security Police Specialists. To the best of .
my abilities and understanding, these are the true facts of what I recall.

1 a. When I went to talk to Tamira and Patty what was I told not to discuss.
Answer; "not to talk to anyone regarding this issue ". The last thing I asked after this was
stated to me was whether or not Jeff Gasaway knew why I was there (the purpose) and
Patty said that he did know why 1 was there.

1 b. Who did I tell, date, time and location and what was discussed.
Answer: "Jeff Gasaway, my building Principal. In his office after letting him know that I
was back in the building from my meeting.

Answer: Discussion. I documented the following after this occurred in his office. This is
what was discussed;
Meeting with was closed and no one else was in the room.
Jeffin his office: Door

After I left the meeting with Tamira and Patty, 1 went back to Jasper High School. As I
entered the building I went to his office just to let him know that 1 was back from the
meeting. I said, "Hi Jeff, I just wanted to let you know that I am back in the office. " This
was my true intention of going into his office. He was standing up and turned around and
said, "Is everything OK?" 1just looked at himfor afew seconds and then said, "Jeff...
Patty has let me know that you already know why 1 was there. " He shook his head up and
down once then said, "Are you OK?" I then told him that I was shocked about being
there because I thought I was there to discuss the possibilities of me moving to another
school. 1 also shared with him that 1 had given them (Patty Meyer) some notes on the
reasons as to why I wanted to move to work under different leadership. He shook his
head up and down. He then sat down at his desk. I told him that I would be "OK" as 1
told him that 1 had answered the questions honestly based on what I ¡mew about the
situation but that I just don't recall too much because it happened almost a year ago. I
told him that I don't know much because even he (you) knew 1 wasn't part of
the hiring
(or Randall) to which I knew you (JefJ) could verifY this. He nodded his head up and
 L J-~~¿-\l ¡

down. He then said, "well, don't forget you texted me about Tracy Franco giving her a
good recommendation ". I did pause a few seconds and replied, "oh yeah...1 forgot about
that" He then asked again, "well...are you going to be OK? I said Ijustfelt railroaded
and confused because I was asked all these questions and I couldn't understand it. He
said, "Yeah?". I said "yeah... like if Dr. Dean promised me ajob and you and I both
know I would like to move up to the senior high level whether it be at West, Senior or
East. "And he nodded his head up and down as I stated this. He then said, "well.... let me
know ifthere is anything I can dofor you ". I told him that I would be OK but that this
was a surprise to me. I then got up and left his office and went to my office to begin
working. This was ALL that was said. This was documented after I left his office.
I now look back at this situation above and think and wonder how could have I have
succumbed to this in a moment of emotional weakness...1 have now learned my lesson.
My only response is that I let my emotions and my insecurities with Jeff get the best of me
and I wanted to somehow be heard by him since he had asked me "if everything was
Ok" ...since there has been so much tension, stress and my unhappiness a/having to work
for him. I kept a journal of situations and the environment I have had work in for this
school year and had given it to Patty Meyer as a result of my choosing and asking to
move schools two weeks prior to this meeting between Larry, Bart and myself I had
believed at the time of my meeting with Patty Meyer that the meeting was initially to
. discuss why I wanted to move schools. This is when I gave Patty my journal writings
regarding what I had been going through with Jeff, up to and including how Nevert
Moses got the AP job at PESH when I knew she wasn't a certified teacher much-less a
certified principal (took the test 5 or 6 times and still had not passed it) and STILL got
the AP job at PESH despite me being certified in special education and as a principal.
Patty asked me how I knew this and 1 told her that Nevert Moses had told me and that we
were friends. This school never even called me to let me know that a decision had been
made. I found out by a text message from Nev saying, "I got it..I got it ". I inquired to Jeff
about no one calling me and he told me not to call them to let them call... no one ever did.

My error in an emotional lack of judgment (at the time) was made when speaking with my
own building principal has been deemed as "insubordinate" by Tamira Griffin, Director
of HR. The price 1 have to pay and has indeed, been a lesson well-learned. The action
was my failure to follow directions from Patty Meyer and Tamira Griffin to "not talk
about it ". Please understand with all due respect and sincerity that 1 didn't do it
intentionally, it wasn't planned, or even anticipated. I have never...ever in my life..ever
been involved in anything like this. 1 have never.. ever been reprimanded, in trouble, or
had any dealings of this nature and it has indeed taken an emotional toll on myself.. and
my §it 3 I often ponder how could 1, in a moment of weakness allowed myself speak
to any degree about the situation.... especially to a person I no longer wanted to work for.

I have a few thoughts of my own that 1 can't help but to wonder: Please
understand that 1 accept responsibility for my actions and am not blaming him for my
actions. However, I further question his leadership in "his participation of the
conversation" compounded by the "challenged" professional relationship we have had
both in the past and present. 1 can't help but wonder if Patty had shared with him my
journal writings of instances of my unhappiness as to why I wanted to move schools.

.~..
 Jeff used to work in HR. As my building principal, my "leader" my "mentor" or
someone looking out for my best interest and to help me grow.... that if he felt that any
part of this discussion was inappropriate or against rules since he knew why 1 was asked
to meet with Patty and Tamira (because 1 was told by Patty that Jeff did know why I was
there to meet with them)...I can't help but to wonder why wouldn't he, as my leader, as a
former HR employee say something...
anything... remind me or say something like" let's
not talk about this ... or in situations like this no discussion should take place... or I want
to caution you about the fact that you should not discuss anything to anyone so lets stop.
At no time did he make any attempt to prevent, change the subject or stop the
conversation.
I went into his office for the sole purpose to iriform him that I was back in the
building. It was not to have this discussion for which 1 have been placed on
administrative leave with pay. He asked me a broad and open-ended question when I got
there and it went from there. I have been placed on Administrative leave for
insubordination.... because he told them of our discussion and it appears the HR letter
was ready for me on Friday before I even got there to the Admin building.
I know that Jeff had told them because I was asked by Larry if I had talked to
anyone about the issue and I immediately responded "my building principal, Jeff

Gasaway". Tome...this is yet just another example or attempt, or lack of to fùrther

harass me and has yet failed me again with his leadership abilities because it could have
been prevented. Yes, by me not going into his office, taking the bait of answering an
open-ended question, but by him taking a more perhaps preventative leadership initiative
role to look out for my best interest. He did begin the discussion by asking if everything
was alright.... when he knew 1 why I was there to begin with and I called him on it. Jeff

knows me well... and Ifeel as though Ifell into his trap and here I am. Right where he
wants me. Especially if he knew what I had provided to Patty in writing.

2. To the best of my recollection, the following is what I recall from any communication
with Tracy Ryerson. I am truly sorry but I do not recall any more than what is stated
here. As I told Patty and Tamira, I wished this would have been addressed at the time so I
could be more helpful in any way but I just don't recall specific details of the incident.
My phone records are archived and only show 5 or 6 phone calls with afew one minute
on my cell. On this archived information it does not show any of my ingoing or outgoing
text message numbers. 1 can tell you that I have hundreds of text messages (give or take)
on a monthly basis with friends, families and other people.

I will also state that at each opportunity, when these questions were addressed, that 1
have been nothing but honest in my answers at the time of questioning and that 1 am not
intentionally, maliciously hiding anything or any information from anyone. 1 have been
trutJiful with my answers based on what I recall... but it's not fair to say that 1 have been
placed on administrative paid leave for "and/or dishonesty ". 1 have always had high
regards to adhering to school policy and procedures and have done everything 1 can to
exemplifý and demonstrate ethical, moral, and excellent character values.
As time has progressed, I have recalled additional memories and I was told by both
Patty and Tamira that if 1 recalled anything to let them know. As I told Burt and Larry, I
was waiting to hear backfrom Patty Meyer as she said she would get back with me
before spring break regarding the information I had given her about Jeff, which included
my questions and concerns about Nevert Moses getting the job over me based on our
obvious differences qualifications.

I am unable to determine dates but it was primarily around the time Tracy Ryerson was
interested in the Curriculum position that was open at our school. There were some
occasions of telephone calls, texting and seeing one another in person. I have seen her on
occasion during the school year at Principal meetings and truancy court. I don't know
that I would consider her as afriend but instead as a professional colleague.

Some things I recall between the conversations between Tracy Ryerson and myself..'

1 actually met Tracy Ryerson in truancy court last year. I only recognized her by the
name on her badge. I recall her telling me that she liked her school but was hoping to
get back into curriculum. There was some discussion about ajob that was open with
McKinney ISD and that they were lookingfor an AP and that she knew some people in
that district if I was interested in the job. We exchanged numbers in court after she
encouraged me to look into it. I never did though. I believed that my time and place will

happen with getting an AP position with PISD. I have already been on several interviews
but they keep hiring their own Deans to which I cannot argue that at all. 1
only argue the
hiring ofNevert Moses over me...despite it being her school where she worked as their
Criminal Justice teacher but was never a certified teacher or principal and she still got
the job over me.
I recall seeing Tracy in either truancy court or in a principal meeting and her indicating
that she was not happy with her job and that if she could just get a job somewhere it

would "open up my position and you could slide into my job ". The last time she said this
to me was earlier this year at a principal's meeting and she again had stated how
unhappy she was with her job. She said that she hopes she could just get another job and
then I could "move into her job and that she would feel really good about it knowing her
kids would be taken good care of". Both times ....and again, I reiterate ...she initiated
this. I, of course, would (for starters) love to be promoted as any Dean hopes for. It is no
secret to anyone that I like working with the senior high level only because of all the
extra curricular activities, pep rallies, getting them ready for college, lots of
opportunities for leadership growth, grandiose basketball and football games... it 's a
different culture and climate that I worked in for five years. Yes, I miss it. However, I also
enjoy working with high school students too but it's just different at the senior high level
and those kids, curriculum, expectations, community needs.

I recall a phone call or a text from Tracy Ryerson that generated communication between
the two of us, 1 just recall that the communication in whatever form was initiated by her
be it via cell, call to my home or text. I recall that within this ftrst conversation that
Tracy Ryerson told me that Tracy Franco had told her to call me regarding a new
curriculum position that had opened at my school. 1 recall her saying something to the
affect of "what do 1 need to do...you know what are they looldngfor...I really want this
position ". I was not involved in the interviewee process and 1 believe she asked me
something about if I knew who was all interviewing or something. Which I did not. I
recall saying something about doing what one would do when coming to a new school. I
think I even shared that what I did before interviewing at Jasper is that I looked at their
AEIS report to become knowledgeable with the school data, demographics, obvious
needs, trends or whatever. I recall her saying that she really wanted to get back into
curriculum and just really wanted to do whatever it took to get this job. I believe that she
had mentioned some of her experience in curriculum and how she could help our school
but I don't recall how she would intend to do this. I believe she discussed some programs
or something she has done with other schools in curriculum but I don't recall what that
was in detail.

1 have also spoke with my now then husband (Vance) over spring break to see ifhe could
help me recall any information regarding the phone calls or texts between Tracy Ryerson
and myseif from last summer regarding this information. He took a few moments and
said "...is she the one who was calling and texting and asking about the
job at your
school or something? He just told me that he recalls her texting me about questions about
the job and that she was nervous or something. He also said, "there was calling and
texting between myseif and her afew times. Vance also said "wasn't she the one who
was upset because she didn't get the job.....something about she thought she was the
wrong color or something? ". Vance said he recalled that I was hoping that she would get
thejob so maybe it would open up ajobfor me at her school so I could go back to PSHS
since I was unhappy at Jasper.

During this time, Vance recollected some things regarding the text messages that helped
me recall some information. In Vance's words, "she had anxiety ... was worried or
something and was asking if you heard anything or something... ohh and when she texted
you to say she didn't get it" is what he remembers. Sad that he can recall this but I didn't
until he said something to help recollect my memory to some things. This irtformation has
indeed helped me recall some details of some text messages that are being alleged that
were made between Tracy Ryerson and myself.

Since speaking to my then husband and his help in remembering things, 1 have recalled
some texts between us. I recall her sending a few texts once she had interviewed and
before she interviewed. I believe I got a text indicating when she would be interviewing. I
do recall texting back to her responses most times ...1 guess. From what 1 can recall she
would send me texts saying something to the .affect to her feeling anxious or maybe
nervous and I believe I would have probably texted back for her to pray about it and to
think positive because I try to stay positive and keep the Lord in my circle. I remember
texting something about having faith or something to help settle her nerves or anxiety she
was having. I also recall her texting me, "have you heard anything?" (this was after she
interviewed) on more than one occasion, I know I probably said something like "no..1

haven't" because I didn't know. I believe she did ask if I knew how many were
interviewing for the job to which I would have only been able to tell her that 1 didn't
because I don't and still don't how many people had interviewed. I do recall a text from
her that asked if 1 knew how the interviews were going? And a text that said, "any word
or...something to this affect. 1 believe I may have gotten a text regarding if I knew when a
decision was going to be made which I did not have the answer to. Jeff sent out an email

indicating who was named as the person who had the job and that's when I found out.

I do recall a separate conversation over the phone after she had actually interviewed. I
believe she said something to the affect of her feeling good about her interview and
something to the affect of Jeff Gasaway grabbing her arm or touching her arm or
something and saying that he would be in touch with her soon...something to this affect
as he walked her out of the office. 1 think she may have even said that he either winked or
made some kind of facial/head gesture which she believed made her feel good about her
interview as he had touched or placed his hands on her arm. I also recall her mentioning
that he would be "in touch with her real soon" before she left. I recall her feeling really
good about how Jeff responded to her and felt that maybe she had got the job. 1 recall

her telling me what they asked her (but I don't recall what questions) something about
how she had analyzed the Jasper AE1S report and what she could do to make something
improve some area based on the report but I don't recall what it was.

I believe she texted me to say that she didn't get the job. I think it was something like "1
didn't get it ".

I recall feeling badly for her that she didn't get it because she said she was so hopeful by

Jeff's demeanor (facial expression and physical contact and that him indicating that he .
would be in touch with her real soon) and knowing what Tracy Franco had to say about
her. She was upset because of the mixed message he gave her and her feeling let down as
she later had found out that she didn't get the job.

I also recall and emailed Patty Meyer and Tamira Griffin on the day I met with them that
I recall getting a phone call from Tracy Ryerson after she had learned that she was not
selected for the Jasper position. She sounded very upset to the point of being mad when
she said something to the affect of, "well.. I didn't get it.. What was it?... come on.... you
can tell me... what do you know? ". I said something to the affect of letting her know that I
didn't know anything. She also asked me if I knew the person who got it which I did not
actually know this person much less who she was. I truly had never met her and knew
nothing about her. She then asked something like ''just tell me...come on you can tell

me....... what color is she?? I replied" I don't know". ****What I have since recalled is
that I had told her that I guess she could have looked on the website where all of our
pictures are to find out. " She then said angrily, "never mind..! already know the
answer....lm not the right color...you don't have to say anything." That is all I recall

from this conversation at this time.

When Jeff reminded me on my return to school not to ''forget that I texted him saying
Tracy Franco had given her a good recommendation" I had even forgotten about this
until Jeff said something. Because I didn't know Tracy Ryerson, or her background, 1
called Tracy Franco (a good friend of mine) and inquired about her. Tracy Franco did
tell me that she had told Tracy Ryerson to give me a call about the position and to talk to
me to see if I knew anything about it since I worked at the school. I recall Tracy Franco
saying that she "looks good on paper, is over qualifiedfor the AP position at PSHS and
knows her background was very strong in curriculum and that she interviews very welL. "
She also said that Tracy Ryerson wanted to get back into curriculum. I also recall Tamira
Griffin asking me if I thought Tracy Ryerson "looks good on paper" to which I have not
seen any paper and this quote was actually said to me by Tracy Franco.

It was some time after this that I texted Je./fto let him know that Tracy Franco gave her a
good recommendation. He replied, "thanks ".

I recall that 1 had some Idnd of conversation with Tracy Ryerson shortly thereafter (not
sure of the day or timing) but that I had shared with her what Tracy Franco had shared
with me about her. I think it's important that people hear what others say about them
...e;pecially ifits positive.

3. What was I told by Randall or anyone else about the conversation of the "application
process "? Who could 1 have told this iriformation to.

I don't recall having a conversation with Randall or anyone else about the "application
process ". I just recall that one person who was interviewing did so by phone and another
person (Tracy Ryerson) did so in person. 1 don't know who the person was who called in
by phone for their interview, their credentials or anything identifYing them. I am unable
to indicate who or how I knew about this person because 1 wasn't involved in the
interviewing or hiring process at all. I do recall Jeff telling me that Tracy Ryerson was
interested in the job. Which generated me to take the initiative to call Tracy Franco to
find out more about her and a candidate and I sent Jeff the text that Tracy Franco gave
her a good recommendation.

I will state that I resent the fact that Larry Frasier stated that because I have a degree in
Criminal Justice, worked as a CPS investigator and worked with police... and that he
could tell that 1 was smart and that I am articulate and he could see it when I walked
through the door when I was aslred to come to the Admin bldg. that people with these
backgrounds remember these things and that I should be able recall information from
four years ago let alone a year ago. He then asked who I was "protecting" and I said no
one. 1 told him I just don't recall how 1 obtained this information.

I am not going to speculate as to "whom I could have told this information to ". If i was
sure 1 would tell you the name. That is the truth.

Larry also told me that to share another interviewees information with another person
would be "unethical ". 1 just looked at him. What I don't understand is why is it that when
I have interviewed with Burt Smith, Sara Bonser, and Sheela Daniels when I called to set
up my interviews I was told things such as: "That's not a good time, another candidate
has a meeting and that's the only time he is can come" and "That interview slot is talren
because she has to pick up her child. .so sorry" and "I have four of you to set up and you
can have the first pick since you called first ". My question? This is maldng no sense to
me why I am being asked who 1 would have or could've told that a candidate had to call

in for an interview ...and 1 don't recall saying this to anyone. However, when I've been an
interviewee and have been told bypeople/principals about the other candidates I was up
against, my question is that are the other principals "unethical "for sharing other
candidates interview times and situations with me?? Just because I knew a candidate
had to call infor their interview doesn't say anything else about the candidate?
Qualifications? Name? identifiable information regarding a person? Again, I don't recall

how I know this information or recall telling anyone about the candidate who called in
for an interview. 1 was not involved in the hiring of applicants nor never saw any of them.
I never saw any applications, resumes, who was applying (besides Tracy Ryerson by Jeff)

and I don't know Tracy Ryersons actual background or what her resume even looks like.

I would stilllike to visit with my area superintendent about the documentation I submitted
to her regarding my concerns of choosing to move to another school to serve under
different leadership as a Dean and to further address my questions and concerns of an
unqualified person getting the job over a qualified person for the AP job at PESH. "

On or about 3-16-10, Jasper High School Principal JeffGasaway submitted a written

statement. Mr. Frazier and I interviewed Mr. Gasaway on or about 3-22-10. I displayed
the statement to Mr. Gasaway and he recognized it as his. Mr. Gasaway stated, "On
Wednesday, February 24th, I was off campus from Jasper High School. I arrived back on
campus approximately at noon. Within 10 minutes of my arrival to campus, Brenda
Smith came into my office asking if I had a minute to speak with her. 1 indicated that I
did and she closed the door. In no way did I ask any questions about how her morning
had gone or how the conversation had gone with Patty Meyer. One reason I was aware
of the conversation occurring with Patty Meyer was because Brenda Smith had blind
copied me on her response to Patty Meyer indicating she would be available on
Wednesday at 9:00 to meet.

While I do not recall all parts of the conversation, or the word for word description, I do
recall some overall themes. I will also mention that a majority of the conversation 1 sat
silently listening and provided little to no response throughout the entire conversation.

. Brenda Smith began the conversation by saying that she was aware that I ¡mew
about her conversation earlier in the day with Patty Meyer. Brenda Smith
mentioned that she had asked Patty Meyer if her principal was aware of what was
going on and indicated that Patty Meyer acknowledged that the principal was
aware.
. Brenda Smith went on during this conversation to talk about some of the specifics
about her conversation with Patty Meyer and Tamira Griffin. Additionally she
felt the need to defend herseif and any questions about interactions with a sub-
school principal, Tracy Ryerson, from Plano Senior High SchooL.

. Brenda Smith indicated that there were questions about her sending text messages
to Tracy Ryerson during the interviewing process that took place over the summer
to replace a vacant assistant principal position. Brenda Smith adamantly
defended herself, saying that she had not made any contact with Tracy Ryerson
during the interview except to wish her well. Brenda Smith also acknowledged
that she had no idea of who was interviewing for the position and no idea the
 make-up of the interviewees. One of the few times I offered any sort of response
to Brenda Smith was to remind her that she had sent me a text message before the
interviews indicating that Tracy Ryerson was well-thought of by Tracy Franco,
. Brenda Smith then went on to discuss recent contact made with Tracy Ryerson.
She said that she had not had any recent contact in any way. She mentioned she
made contact a while back but had not sent any recent text messages, e-mails or
had any phone conversations with Tracy Ryerson.
. One of the final discussion points she mentioned from her conversation with Patty

Meyer and Tamira Griffin was a question about if Dr. Doyle Dean had promised
her a position at Plano Senior High School. She indicated to me that her
response was to the effect that she had joked with him periodically about
"keeping her seat warm in her office" andjokes of that nature, bui Dr. Dean had
never promised her a position.

While this document does not give a word by word account of the conversation, it does
give the overall points of the conversation that occurred. If you have any additional
questions, please let me know. "

On or about 3-22- 10, Mr. Frazier and I interviewed Mr. Chaddick. Mr. Chaddick
submitted a written statement. Mr. Chaddick stated, "I was asked to write a brief
synopsis of the discussion I had on Monday 3/22/1 0 with Bart Rosebure and Larry

Frazier. First I would like to apologize for not remembering all details of the event in
question. The incident they were inquiring about happened in June of 2009 which was
approximately nine months ago. To my best recollection this event was like so many
others where co-workers and other administrators visit with each other about an issue
then they move forward. Always something waiting to be dealt with as an administrator.
The incident in question was to me one of those incidents, details of the event soon
forgotten. I might have been able to remember more details if the situation would have
been questioned sooner. I believe a co-worker, Brenda Smith inquiredfrom me ifwe, the
selection committee, had made a decision about the selection of an Assistant Principal
position that was open at Jasper High School. She was not a candidate but was
interested since she would be working with this person in a professional capacity. I do
not remember if this was in person or on the phone. I seem to recall we discussed that
the committee had interviewed three candidaies but had not made a decision and was
waiting to see if other candidates were out there. At no time would it have been
mentioned that a candidate had been selected since it was clear when the committee
adjourned that we needed to consider other candidates if they were available. At this
time 1 know of no other conversations with Brenda or others about this issue and I do not
recall the committee discussing interviewing other candidates prior to leaving for the
summer. /I

On or about 3-22-10, Mr. Frazier and I interviewed Plano Senior High Associate
Principal Tracy Franco. Mrs. Franco submitted a written statement. Mrs. Franco stated,
"1 am writing this letter in response to your inquiry on 3-22-2010. Both Mr Rosebure
and Mr Frazier came to my office at approximateiy 9:00am on Monday March 22nd. Dr
Dean had reported to me earilier in a team meeting that they were needing to talk io me.
Mr. Rosebure and Mr. Frazier began by asking me how much informationJ had shared
with Brenda Smith and Tracy Ryerson about hiring and positions available in the district
or at Plano Senior High School and if I had any knowledge of Brenda actually talking to
Tracy or if she just talked to me and then I talked to Tracy. They also stated that my
name kept coming up between the two as the investigation progressed. I stated that at
one time I directed Brenda just to call Tracy about her intentions. I do not know if that
occurred.

I am not sure that I remember all of the events as they took place in August of 2009. I do
know that Brenda Smith has inquired several times about coming back to the Senior High
in a Subschool Principal role. I understand her goals are to be an Associate Principal at
the Senior High School and that she would need that experience of a Subschool Principal
to move in that direction of her goals. I have encouraged her throughout her time here at
Plano Senior and while gone. to interview for Assistant Principal positions, supporting
her in her goal.

Mr. Rosebure and Mr. Frazier also inquired about my knowledge of what the applicants
had said in the interviews and who had interviewedfor what position. I share with both
of them, that 1 do not know who applies for what position nor do 1 have knowledge of
what was said in the interviews. I also shared that I do not have any control over who
gets on what list to interview nor do 1 determine who comes to the Senior High School in
Subschool positions.

Mr. Rosebure and Mr. Frazier also inquired as to what chain of command is a Subschool
Principal versus an Assistant at a 9/10 vs an Associate at the Senior High SchooL. I
stated that I was aware that Tracy Ryerson's goals are to be an Associate or a Principal,
and that previously she had been an Associate Principal in Dallas. I also stated that she
is very good, and I have encouraged her to apply for Assistant Pricipal positions at the
9/10 in the Curriculum role to help foster her development. In addition, since Brenda's
goals are to be an Associate in Student Activities that is a different path to take, but I
have encouraged her to apply for Assistant Principal positions as that is the next step.

Lastly, Mr. Rosebure and Mr. Frazier asked why would Tracy be so interested in leaving
Plano Senior High School. I shared again that the only reason why 1 thought that Tracy
was interested in leaving is that 1 understand her goals are to be a building principal and
she would need more experience to do that. Again, I have encouraged Tracy to
interview
when positions come up so that she can gain that experience and progress toward her
goals.

In addition, Mr. Rosebure and Mr. Frazier asked who was Tracy's direct supervisor. I
shared that Dusty Jennings was the Team Leader for Subschool and that he reports to
Mr. Davis, but that Dr. Dean meets with all of us on our goals and signs off on them.
 L J-';:i.~¿.lvl"t""\.9Vnp\.VVL _...-
(tM~

I sure hope that this clears up anything, I will, however, continue to support the leaders
on my campus and mentor them and encourage them to interview for positions that might
be in their professional goals. "

On or about 3-26-10, Mr. Frazier and I interviewed Plano Senior High School Sub-
School Principal Karin Ball. Mrs. Ball submitted a written statement. Mrs. Ball stated,
"At the beginning of the school year, Tracy Ryerson had interviewed for the job at
Jasper and was very deflated that she did not get it. I asked why she was distraught, and
she only said that perhaps this district was not for her, she thought the job was hers.
Ajob opening at Shepton came open and I told her she should probably go for that one
since she is so qualified. She said she didn't want to go through that again. She said she
had been told some things and didn't want to go through that again. When pressed about
it, she explained that someone had been giving her a play by play about the interviews
but didn't want to go into it.
Later, I'm not sure of the timeline, we spoke of it again and she was concerned that
someone wanted her job. She Explained further that it was Brenda Smith and she had
been telling her the things that had been going on at Jasper interviews earlier. She also
was encouraging Tracy to go to the interview process again because then that would
mean that she could get her job at PSHS, taking Tracy's position. Tracy and I talked
about talking to Jeff ( as if we were in his boots). I said wouldn't you want to know if

someone you trusted is not being confidential or truthfùl. She and I went to DR. Dean to
explain things to him because Tracy was concerned with her position being taken by
Brenda. At that time Dr. Dean said not to worry, she isn't going anywhere.
Tracy wanted to tell Jeffbut didn't know him well enough to do so. I said I could calif
or
her to open the doors of communication ifshe wanted. I did. He was busy and called
back. We talked to him on speaker phone, then she spoke to him by herself. "

During the interview with Ms. Reyerson on or about 3-22-10, Ms. Ryerson indicated that
Cì 7 cold her that Mr. Gasaway was accused of sexual harassment by a Jasper High

School staff member.

On or about 3-24-10, Mr. Frazier and I advised Mrs. Griffin that Ms. Ryerson reported to
us thai (§ iltold her that Mr. Gasaway was accused of sexual harassment. Mrs.
Griffin indicated that there was an anonymous report regarding Mr. Gasaway during the
2008-2009, school year. Mrs. Griffin indicated there were only three people that were
aware that Mr. Gasaway was accused of sexual harassment. Mrs. Griffin said that the
only people aware were Mrs. Meyer, Mr. Gasaway, and herself. Mrs. Griffin indicated
that she wanted to know how(lii . iilwas aware of the sexual harassment accusation
regarding Mr. Gasaway. Mrs. Griffin advised Mr. Frazier and me to speak to. iJ

regarding the information.

On or about 3-29-10, Mr. Frazier and 1 interviewed@ _to ascertain ifshe told Ms.
Ryerson that Mr. Gasaway was accused of sexual harassment at Jasper High SchooL..
~ndicated that she observed an unknown Jasper High School teacher and Mr.

Gasaway at a campus party. said that she observed Mr. Gasaway and the
unknown teacher talking at the party. indicated that following the party there
 L- -I .."........... -I'" I I _............ i ,

t''e.''tJ ev:arf- ~$ ~

were rumors circulating on campus regarding Mr. Gasaway

and the unknown teacher.
¡ll .J said someone reported to her that Mr. Gasaway touched the breast of the
unknown teacher at the party.
6_ Wndicated that someone from the English
department talked to her about the information and that School Liaison Officer Allison
McCann spoke to her regarding the information. ¡jl Ð iaid that she did not
remember the name of the English teacher that told her the information. iSi 2 said
that she did not remember who the English teacher was that Mr. Gasaway touched

inappropriately. Ii Illencouraged me to look at the Jasper High School website to

allow her to look at the En lish department staff members' names. I started to log into
my computer, and . immediately told me the teacher's name was"" ?
(fi l'said tha was the teacher that Mr. Gasaway reportedly touched
inappropriately at thûY said that she recently received a telephone call

from SLO McCann. Ql)said that SLO McCann told her that~as
the teacher that Mr. Gasaway had inappropriately touched. Mr. Frazier and I requested

iii Lito submit a statement regarding the information. (l§ iif,stated,

"Responses from 3/29/10 with Larry Frasier and Burt Rosebure, P1SD Security Police

Specialists. To the best of my abilities and understanding, these are the true facts of what
I recall.

1 a. Question: What do I know about the situation/relationship that occurred between Jeff

Gasaway and an English teacher(llj ; ill

lb. Answer:
Teresa Brown had opened her home for an end of
the year party (last school
year) for our faculty and stajJ.

I came to the party and did not drink any alcohol due to the medications I am
required to take. I do recall going out to my car at one point and opened the hatch back
to retrieve my(j llllas someone was smoking a cigar that was setting off m) 6 I jlI
did note seeing Jeff Gasaway and an English teacher, j;¡ ? on the sidewalk on
the opposite side of the street and they appeared to be talking. I was personally at this
party for about an hour.
I don't recall exactly the time frame as to when I was told the following
information but I know it was a matter of days from the party at Teresa's home. I
overheard by some of the office staff that Jeff and an English teacher were seen leaving a
few times together and that Jeff was always close to her. I do not recall what teacher he
was with but she was referred to as an English teacher.
I also don't recall the teacher who came into my office and said that an English
teacher she was friends with had told her that the two of them(Jeff and English teacher)
had been texting (and/or calling) one another and that Jeff had touched her
inappropriately. This same person who reported this to me (I believe it was an English
teacher... almost positive) also stated that the alleged English teacher" land 0!!i,iked the
attention" as she was either going through a divorce/separation from¡l abut knew
it was wrongfor what was going on between them. This teacher also told me thaì'šiìe--- $'5:1.11'1

"wanted it to stop but didn't know how to stop all of this between them because she /
needed her job and was afraid of what Jeff might do to her....and possible retaliation"
and the fact that that the two of them would be in trouble because they are both. 0
 l- J - Y, ¿ . (0 I ,.. C9,\NlIY\l7r'-¡.)N"

rri~

I recall encouraging this person (it was afemale) to tell this English teacher to see me
and that I would help her in anyway I could to make it stop. I do recall asking for the
name of the English teacher and this person would not tell me because she said she was
her friend but felt that someone needed to know. I recall her saying that everyone is
talking about it. I believe she told me that she didn't want to get involved and/or
promised this teacher she would not say anything but that this was not right and wanted
to tell someone. Again, she would not tell me the name of the teacher but wanted me to
know that this was going on. She stated this information as a concern and I felt that this
was something that needed to be addressed with Mark Hinshaw since it directly involved
my building principal. All I can remember is that it was an English teacher in the English
department who came to me to report this.
I recall that not much time lapsed between the time I was told this information
(above) and the time I called Mark Hinshaw on my cell phone to ask him if we could meet
up to catch up as we have done in the past from time to time. Mark suggested that we
meet on 15th street at a pub. It was on the evening when the sirens were going off due to
the tornado warnings and the pub lost power. It was on this evening that I told Mark of
the information I had learned. I initiated the conversation and told him I needed to tell

him something that I had heard about Jeff Gasaway. I told him what 1 mentioned above
and Mark asked if I knew the name of the English teacher (Jeff was alleged to have this
association with) to which I told him I did not. He told me that "... it was probably just a
rumor" but to let him know if I heard anything new or ifIfound out the name. He did ask
who told me this information and 1 told him that 1 don't recall the name of the teacher
who came into my office but I felt it was fùrther substantiated by other bits of information
offered by Officer McCann, and some staff members who I overheard talking about it

which is why I Jelt the need to report it to him since it involved my own building
principal. Officer McCann told me out of concern from what she was also hearing of a
possible problem at Jasper High School. He again reiterated to just let him know if I
found out the name of the teacher.
It has only been recently (4-5 days ago), I was talking to Officer McCann who
was "checking on me" to see how I was doing since my district email has been closed.
Somewhere in our conversation, this exact topic came up (above) and how frustrating
that it was for me to be investigated jor things and yet no one looked into the possible
allegations between Mr. Gasaway and an English teacher. I recall telling Officer
McCann that nothing could be done since we didn't have the name of the alleged teacher
and that it could be a rumor because no one would identify the English teacher and
Officer McCann knew 1 had already informed Mark Hinshaw when 1 first heard about it.
I told her that I know Mark well and that he would act on it if he had the name oj the
teacher in question. Officer McCann then said I know who she might be if you can tell me
some names of those in the English department to help me recall her name. I then named
~some of the English teacher's names and then Officer McCann then said, tit

". She then said she was pretty sure that this is the name she has heard. I did tell

her t at someone needs to go forward with this information because if I do... at this point
I believe one may think I would bí:&:rng to retaliate against Jeff. I don't ¡mow how
Officer McCann ¡mows or recalls _name but this was the name she believes
is the name oj the teacher who was allegedly 'i.:volved with Jeff. Officer McCann, some
teachers and staff have indicated that a lot of people know about the rumors and have
 L.-.J - ...,I...x-~'VI t \,Y't'''..,.......

'fY\~

been talking about it since last summer. However, I have heard little if nothing new
during this school year regarding these rumors of the alleged incident at hand until
last
week with my discussion with Officer McCann. .

2a. I was asked if I told Tracy Ryerson that there was an investigation being done on Jeff

Gasaway about a sexual harassment issue.

2b. I am unaware of ANY investigations or even aformal complaint of

sexual
harassment involving Jeff Gasaway. In essence, I only kno;¡¡;,rumors 01 an alleged
relationship between Jeff Gasaway and an English teacher iJ I was then
asked if I "could have told" Tracy Ryerson "at a time when I was upset" about an
investigation of sexual harassment investigation involving Jeff Gasaway. I was told that
this "would have been done after Tracy had learned abÇJut not getting the job at Jasper ".
I do not recall having this particular discussion with Tracy Ryerson. It is not
possible for me to share information about an investigation that did not nor does not exist
to my knowledge. To reiterate, to the best of my knowledge and the best of my
recollection, there has been no investigation regarding these allegations or any type of
investigations of Jeff Gasaway and I do not recall having any discussions thereof with
Tracy Ryerson regarding this claim.
The only person 1 reported these allegations to was Mark Hinshaw, because it

was the right thing to do, despite not having the English teachers name. "

No further information. "

ill ll itated in her statement, "10. Question: What do I know about the
-tfuation/relationship that occurred between Jeff Gasaway, and an English teacher
lJIIIJt r4i" Mr. Frazier and I did not ask of what she knew about the
relationship. Mr. Frazier and I requested to complete a statement regding
her observations at the campus party. Mr. Frazier and I also requested. .to
include in her written statement whether she told Ms. Ryerson that Mr. Gasaway was

accused of sexual harassment.

During the course of this inVeStigon@. §lwas evasive with her responses. It is
highly questionable that 1!& has worked at Jasper High School approximately one
year and seven months and would not be able to identify a Jasper High School teacher
she saw at this party. During the interview, when £ iiilwas asked questions directly
related to the allegations, she repeatedly indicated that she aid not recall or remember.
the word recall approximately forty-nine (49) times in her two
(l jlJused a form of
statements. During the course of this investigation Mr. Frazier a1 met witti@ jl)

three times regarding this case. During the first meetinQ had an emotional

outburst towards Mr. Frazier regardin his questioning of her honesty. During the third
interview Mr. Frazier and I met with 10 allow her to review her written
statements and sign them in our presence. became emotional and told Mr.
Frazier and me highly personal information that did not pertain to this case.

"'.
 L- ..J-~.)L'IU'ì l...J)'IlH' """,~
iMu

On or about 3- 15-10, Ms. Smith called Director of Security Police Services Mr.

Hinshaw's telephone. Mr. Hinshaw did not answer the telephone calL. Ms. Smith left a
voice mail on Mr. Hinshaw's telephone indicating that she was havingyl i E and
needed to retrieve some of her personal belongings from Jasper High SchooL.

Mr. Frazier and Human Resources Coordinator Autry Daniel met with Ms. Smith at
Jasper High School to retrieve some of her personal belongings. Mr. Frazier reported that
some of Ms. Smith's property fell on the floor. Mr. Frazier indicated that he picked the
property up to give to Ms. Smith. Ms. Smith pulled the property from Mr. Frazier's hand
in an angry manner. Mr. Frazier reported thiit while he was assisting Ms. Smith with her
property that she told him that she did not need help

On or about 3-29-10, Mr. Frazier and I interviewe~::Êe' Ryerson. The purpose of

the
interview was to inquire about the information tha ïl told her regarding the
sexual harassment allegations. Ms. Ryerson submitted an additiojlal written statement
regarding a conversation with Ms. Smith. Ms. Ryerson stated, 'f!!! gold me
last summer that Jeff Gazzaway was accused of sexual harrassment by a staff member. I
do not recall exactly who she told me; however, I was under the impression it was a lady
on my interview panel - possibly the science department chair or a guidance counselor.
This statement was made after I did not get the job at Jasper. I thought it was to console
me but I do not remember the exact conversation or time frame. It is my belief the
conversation occurred in August around the principal meetings. "

On or about 3-29-10, Director of Security Police Services Mark Hinshaw submitted a

written statement. Mr. Hinshaw,ted, "On or about 06-10-09, I received a phone call

in the early evening hours from Wffered to buy me a beer, and 1

declined her invitation. I had already eaten dinner, and I was in for the evening. She
then asked me again 2-3 more times, and I agreed to meet her at Fillmore Pub, 1004 E.
15th Street in Plano. This pub is approximately one block from my residence, and I
walked to the pub.

Based on my acquaintance witJfii * I anticipated that she wished to complain

about work and lament over he;:jfi¡lure to advance in PISD. 1fùrther suspected that she
would be speaking about staff discord at Jasper High School, of which there had been
recent talk.. §bought me a pint of beer, and she proceeded to complain about
her work environment and the fact that she was not advancing at the rate she felt she
should be advancing. At some point during the conversation, a severe storm hit the
downtown Plano area. I monitored this situation and communicated with employees of
the pub to move the customers away from the windows.

I relocated where I was sitting withe 2B As we spoke at a corner seat of the bar,

she told me that she had heard some gossip about Jasper High School Principal Jeff

Gasaway. ß S 'old me that Mr. GaSaw¡tad been engaged in an ongoing sexual

relationship with one of his teachers. (Jjj; id not name the teacher, and 1 did not
ask. . Qtold me that the teacher wished to end the relationship but was scared to
do so. & gstory was clearly third-party gossip, and I counseled her against
 L J -~-:;'''-,IVrr\.Ol'nrnol'

fY''''Ü

repeating such stories, I advised her that if an employee at the campus felt to be the
victim of sexual harassment, the employee needed to report the situation. No more was
said of the matter.

I interpreted\ii; gelating the story to me as partly an attempt to impress me with

what she felt was knowledge that she possessed, and partly as an attempt to lake a swipe
at Mr. Gasaway, with whom she was unhappy. ljinished my pint of beer, and walked
home alone. I spoke to no one of the gossip thatE lJhad told me. I was at the pub
for approximately no longer than one hour.

At some point in the weeks after this, I received a phone call one night from Mr.
Gasaway. As I no longer speak with Mr. Gasaway very often and he was conspicuously
making small talk with me, I suspected he was calling to ask something of me, A short
time later he asked me if I had heard anything at the administrative building regarding
him. He indicated that he had been directed to be a Patty Meyer's office in the morning,
and the insinuation was that he felt like he was in trouble. I told him that I had heard
nothing at work about him. I advised him that there was gossip being spoken concerning
him, and 1 told him what 1 had heard. I did not advise him where I received the
information. Mr. Gasaway indicated that he was very stressed out and that he would not
be sleeping that night. 1 told him to call me the next day and let me know that he was o.k.

I spoke to Mr. Gasaway the next day. He advised me that he had been called in to Ms.
MYer,s office over a misunderstanding and that he was o.k.

I have received no credible, direct, or official reports of any alleged sexual harassment
or sexual misconduct perpetrated by Principal Jeff Gasaway on a Jasper High School
employee, and I have not been asked to investigative any of the same. "

On or about 3-29-10, Mr. Frazier and I interviewed Jasper High School English teacher
(lì j §l :old us that Mr JJ3saway made her feel uncomfortable three
times during the 2008-2009, school year.lll! j JlSSaid that Mr. Gasaway spoke to her
in a small group ofteachers at a pep rally during t e fall of 2008. @ EJdid not
remember the exact words that Mr. Gasaway said, however, she said that the tone and
manner in which Mr. Gasaway made the comment made her feel uncomfortable', ..

IIlIlJ indicated that because of Mr. Gasaway's comment and tone, the colleague stated to
her, "I must be chopped liver."k 2 iaid that on an unknown date during the 2008-
2009, school year she and another staff member were walking on a set of stairs at Jasper

High SchooL. & llindicated that Mr. Gasaway looked at her inappropriately while
she was walking on the stairs.iliillIIIIlllsaid that it was so noticeable that another staff
member made a comment to her about Mr. Gasaway obviously staring at her. f 2
said that on an unknown date near the end ofthe 2008-2009, school year she was asked to
meet with Mr. Gasaway regarding a work related assignment. § íi'said that as she
was cntering Mr. Gasaway's office that Mr. Gasaway made contact with the side of her
breast.1l taid that the contact with her breast could have been incidenta1..
_indicated; at Mr. Gasaway called over the campus radio and told other male
adm1ií'istrators to go to a classroom that had a classroom observer. ~ indicated
that the classroom observer was an attractive female.(lß 5lllin~t the feeling
around Jasper High School was that the, "Good ole boys were back."
 L..-I ""~""-'-"\.Y'.':'

lii'(4:)

(É Said that she contacted the Plano ISD Human Resources Department and made
an anonymous report that Mr. Gasaway was making her feel uncomfortable.l!i iJ

said that she thought the Human Resources Department knew who she was because she
used her classroom telephone. ! jiT said that Mr. Gasaway stopped making her feel
uncomfortable, and he has not one anything during the 2009-2010, school year that
maddehherhfeel un~odmfodrtha?ie.@ ii ~said she diit rei thde Ith'nCidehnttìtoithl~kPohlice
an t at s e consi ere t is an emp oyment matter. sai at see tie t e
school district handled the situation.lÎ!I 2l aid that she did not want to pursue the
:tt~a:~:~:~~! staff!~:e~h:~~~as& H:ghd~~~ot~:~a:;::~:~:~ie~~~~~~er

that Mr. Gasaway touched her breast while giving her a hug!@ J il\explained that
the staff member told her that Mr. Gasaway's hand brushed against her breast. Ë iii

would not tell me the name of the staff member that told her of the allegation regarding
Mr. Gasaway. = illsaid that the staff member told her the information in
.confidence. I asked to complete a written statement. I instructec'j .to
~~~~ 7teu;~~nh~; :~~~~;~; l~t~, ~o:l~~~~' :~~:~~~mtrõl tj¡r~~i:~i~~~:t~~~d
"1 have thought very thoroughly about our conversation on Monday, and I am very much
confiicted over the correct course of action. For me, this chapter in my life closed last
June, I haven't been bothered personally since then, and I've moved on. Without our
conversation, I would not have ever thought to pursue this matter any further, and I
would prefer not to pursue any further investigation. Please let me know if you need
anything more from me. "

CONCLUSION:
The evidence indicates that Ms. Smith was given a verbal directive by Mrs. Griffin to not
discuss their conversation. The evidence indicates that Ms. Smith spoke to Mr. Gasaway
and violated the directive given to her by Mrs. Griffin.

Ms. Smith violated Plano ISD district policy DH (Local).

"Employees shall comply with the standards of conduct set out in

this policy and with any other policies, regulations, and guidelines
that impose duties, requirements, or standards attendant to their status as District
employees. Violation of any policies, regulations, or guidelines may result in disciplinary

action, including termination of employment. (See DCD and DF series)

All employees shall adhere to District scifety rules and regulations. "

The complaint is sustained.

Mrs. Meyer stated that Ms. Smith told Mrs. Griffin and her that Ms. Smith contacted Ms.
Ryerson about two or three times. Mrs. Griffin indicated that Ms. Smith told Mrs. Meyer
and her that she communicated with Ms. Ryerson two to four times.
During the interview with Ms. Smith she told Mr. Frazier and me that she communicated
with Ms. Ryerson two to four times. Ms. Smith stated in her written statement, "My
phone records are archived and only show 5 or 6 phone calls with afew one minute on
my cell. On this archived information it does not show any of my ingoing or outgoing text
message numbers. "

Ms. Ryerson's phone records indicate that she sent Ms. Smith approximately sixty-seven
(67) text messages. Ms. Ryerson's phone records indicate that she received
approximately seventy-six (76) text messages from Ms. Smith.

Ms. Ryerson's phone records indicate that she called Ms. Smith six (6) times. Ms.
Ryerson's phone records indicate that she received four (4) calls from Ms. Smith.

Ms. Smith's Plano ISD office telephone records indicate that she called Ms. Ryerson one
time.

The assistant principal interview at Jasper High School occurred on 6-26-09. The
interviews started at approximately 2:30 p.m., and the last interview started at
approximately 5:30 p.m.

Ms. Ryerson's phone records indicate:

6-26-09 1 :03 p.m. Ms. Ryerson received a phone call from Ms. Smith (2 minutes)
6-26-09 1 :27 p.m. Ms. Ryerson called Ms. Smith (call waiting 1 minute)
6-26-09 1 :27 p.m. Ms. Ryerson called Ms. Smith (1 minute)
6-26-09 1 :27 p.m. Ms. Ryerson called Ms. Smith (6 minutes)
6-26-09 1 :32 p.m. Ms. Ryerson called Ms. Smith (20 minutes)
6-26-09 3:48 p.m. Ms. Ryerson received a text message from Ms. Smith
6-26-09 4:33 p.m. Ms. Ryerson received a text message from Ms. Smith
6-26-09 5:32 p.m. Ms. Ryerson sent a text message to Ms. Smith

6-26-09 5:59 p.m. Ms. Ryerson sent a text message to Ms. Smith

6-26-09 6:27 p.m. Ms. Ryerson sent a text message to Ms. Smith
6-26-09 6:29 p.m. Ms. Ryerson sent a text message to Ms. Smith
6-26-09 6:58 p.m. Ms. Ryerson sent a text message to Ms. Smith
6-26-09 7:26 p.m. Ms. Ryerson called Ms. Smith (I minute)
6-26-09 7:28 p.m. Ms. Ryerson sent a text message to Ms. Smith
6-26-09 7:29 p.m. Ms. Ryerson received a text message from Ms. Smith
6-26-09 7:40 p.m. Ms. Smith called Ms. Ryerson (20 minutes)
6-26-09 8:29 p.m. Ms. Ryerson received a text message from Ms. Smith

The evidei1Ce suggests that Ms. Smith was deceptive to Mrs. Meyer and Mrs. Griffin
regarding the amount of communication that she had with Ms. Ryerson. The evidence
suggests that Ms. Smith was deceptive during this investigation regarding the amount of
communication with Ms. Ryerson.

Ms. Smith violated district policy DH (Exhibit)

 LJ~- .);l¿,IV\ïc.nttYW 1'WM;:l'

prì~

"The Texas educator, in maintaining the dignity of the profession, shall respect and obey
the law, demonstrate personal integrity, and exemplifY honesty. "

The complaint is sustained.

Ms. Ryerson stated, coB g 'old me last summer that Jeff Gazzaway was accused
of sexual harrrgsment by a staff member. " During the interview with Ms. Ryerson she
indicated that, lJ:old her tJlls information on the telephone during the summer of
2009. Ms. Ryerson indicated thatL jlmade this comment while they were talking
about Ms. Ryerson not getting the position at Jasper High SchooL.

& g itated, "I do not recall having this particular discussion with Tracy Ryerson. It
is not possible for me to share information about an investigation that did not nor does
not exist to my knowledge. To reiterate, to the best of my knowledge and the best of my
recollection, there has been no investigation regarding these allegations or any type of
investigations of Jeff Gasaway and I do not recall having any discussions thereof with
Tracy Ryerson regarding this claim. "

6 ~tated, "In essence, I

only know of rumors of an alleged relationship between
Jeff Gasaway and an English teacher@ lijJ"

The evidence suggests thaW B told Ms. Ryerson that Mr. Gasaway was accused
of sexual harassment with01:#jlersonal knowledge of any factual information regarding
such a matter. Furthermore,(llI B indicated that she told Mr. Hinshaw that Mr.
Gasaway had a relationship with a teacher at Jasper High SchooL. C ~ indicated to
Mr. Frazier and me that she needed to report this matter to Mr. Hinshaw because it was
regarding her building principal. _ 3 communication with Ms. Ryerson and Mr.
Hinshaw was unprofessional, and she communicated information not knowing if the
information was factuaL.

The evidence suggests that & ljItold Ms. Ryerson that Mr. Gasaway was accused
of sexual harassment. This violates district policy DH (Exhibit).

"Standard 2.2. The educator shall not harm others by knowingly making false statements
about a colleague or the school system."

The complaint is sustained.

Additionally, Ms. Smith's communication with Ms. Ryerson regarding the interviews for
the Assistant Principal position at Jasper High School was unethicaL.

Ms. Smith violated district policy DH (Exhibit).

Standard 2.1. The educator shall not reveal corrfidential health or personnel information
concerning colleagues unless disclosure serves lawful professional purposes or is
required by law.

The complaint is sustained.

Mr. Frazier and I met with Ms. Ryerson two times regarding this matter. Ms. Ryerson
indicated in her statement to Mrs. Griffin, "I am requesting protection from any
retaliation in relation to this matter with not only Brenda Smith but people I currently
work with. I also do not wish to have any repercussions. It is my wish to promote
through the district and to be successful in my career. "

Ms. Ryerson also stated in her statement to Mrs. Griffin, "I am requesting protection
under the Whistleblower. Please assist me in ensuring this protection. "

Mr. Frazier and I did not discover evidence that any Plano Senior High School staff

member was attempting to have Ms. Ryerson leave Plano Senior High SchooL.

No evidence was discovered that Ms. Ryerson has been subjected to any discrimination,
persecution or inappropriate treatment.
Attachments

A---Tracy Ryerson Statement and Emails (a)

B.--Patty Meyer Statement
C--- Tamira Griffin Email
g.--Brenda Smith Statement (a)
E-;-Jeff Gasaiway Statement
F---TracyFninco Statement
G---Karin Baili Statement .
H-.it 3St=emen.
i ---Tracy RYIJrson Stat en: (bY _ _"Lkùi .g(ì~
J---Mark Hinshaw Statem nt \0 \+~'((w, ,-- - r U
K--. @Email - 5'5'2..,
L---Rai-idall Chaddick Statement

',1 \:..

, ".,
':' \
 March 1, 2010

Dear Ms. Griffin,

I am writing this statement in response to our meeting with Patty Meyerthis afternoon, I am requesting
protection from any retaliation in relation to this matter with not only Brenda Smith but people i
currently work with. I also do not wish to have any repercussions. It Is my wish to promote through the
district and to be successful In my career. My loyalties are to Plano Independent School District. It is not
my intention to cause harm to Brenda. Brenda may have perceived her actions as an attempt to assist
me. The situation has bothered me consistently throughout the school year for reasons I explained
during our meeting. i am providiñg copies of my cell phûne bill to show the continuous contact. I am
also requesting an open records request on my office phone, 469-752-9412. I believe the initial call

.marle to me was no this phone. J am also reQuestirW an open remrds request on .Brenda .5initb's office

phone to show I made no attempt to contact her prior to her Initial call to me. This should clear up any
misconception on who made initial contact and when.

i have rewritten my statement after our meeting to clear up many questions. I first met Brenda Smith at
the Beginning Administrator Meetings with Larry Guinn. I did not sit with or socialize with Brenda during
tbese meel:iiigs.. J sat wJtb Johnny Cotton from Plano East ¡md MarJyss from Plano West. J left directly
after each meeting and reported back to campus. I recall one specific time when I saw Brenda in
truancy court; however, do not recall having any specific conversation with her. I often speak with other
administrators whom I do not know personally due to the amount of time we spend waiting for our
students to go before the judge. I do know I did not establish a social friendship with Brenda nor did I
contact.her hy phone. My next encounter wltb .Brenda was w.hen sbe represented Jas,oer HWb Scbool at
a Plano Senior High School meeting. The discussion surrounded around students who would attend
Plano during the 2009-10 school year and required special attention. Brenda presented her list of
students and to my knowledge, .Ieft the campus. I did not socialize with her or meet with her after this
meeting.

I attended the TASSP meeting with Dr. Dean and Plano administrators during the first two weeks of
June. Dr. Dean advised me of an Assistant Principal of Curriculum position at Jasper High SchooL. He
stated. be felt!. was a llflod match for tbis \lcisitiao. and. would sUQ\lort me in in1eNlewine, for this
position. I spoke with Jeff Gasaway during a professional development session. He stated he would
contact me when we returned to Plano to schedule the interview. Brenda contacted me after the
interview was scheduled and stated she would assist me in planning for the interview and assisted me in
answering questions. She discussed her experiences regarding interviews at Plano East and what she
\lercelved. Jas\ler Hle):i. School was looklnii for.. After reviewine, mi¡ cell i;ibone bUl, l1.aQ\lears as thaue):i

this call was made to my office phone. I thought Brenda was trying to be helpfui since she was friends
with Tracy Franco and Tracy was aware I submitted my resume as a candidate for the position. Mr.
Gasaway cancelled the first appointment and stated he would need to reschedule. I cannot recall the

¿¡u
exact timeline; however, did find a call from Brenda to me on June 22, 2009 at 8:30am. I am unclear as
to if this is the initial call orthe call she made after Mr. Gasaway rescheduled. My cell phone bills
sui;inar:t i. did nnt coiitact. Bi:enda at ami time. i;irinr to this date in. the. i:nnDìh. of lune.. i. aJso i;irO\LÌded.lm¡

April and May 2009 bills to support the fact I never contacted Brenda in any way or form prior to my
interview.

Brenda contacted me several times prior to the interview. She contacted me to find out why the initial
interview was cancelled. i stated I didn't know why. I communicated that Mr. Gasaway stated he would
reschedille.. I. do not recaJ1 the E!)(aet. timelines but do know Brenda. contacted. me to state that Mr..

Gasaway was Interviewing two African American females, a Hispanic female from Garland or Mesquite,
and me. She also shared one of the females was a dean at the middle school level. i am not sure if this
is true but these comments led me to talk to Tracy Franco. I considered removing my name from the list
because Brenda shared they were looking for a minority. I believe the man that left was a Hispanic
roale.. I. toid.lrai:i¡ and. Karin. Baii i. did. not want to E!)(nend. the time and. enerei¡ In. nrenarine, f.O( an.
interview if Jasper was looking for a minority to balance the team. Tracy assured me I was qualified and,
in her opinion, had a very good chance at obtaining the position. Brenda contacted me several times
prior to my interview. I responded because I truly felt she was trying to help me. I was excited at the
opportunity to work at Jasper High School. She communicated her desire to work at Plano Senior High
SchooL. and. stated. that Dr.. Dean and. T.(ae~ would. hire. her If I. Wt the. ipb atlasi;ier. She said. it was a. wine

win situation. i was not in the position to know If Dr. Dean would hire her if i obtained the position at
Jasper but i am sure i agreed this was a positive situation. I believe the interview occurred on June 26,
2009. Please confirm this with Mr. Gasaway. I am relying on phone records to prompt me with the
dates. Brenda called me on June 26, 2009 at 1:03pm. i do not recall specifics about the call other than
she told me that Mr. Gasawa~ had isolated her from this i;irocess. She stated that Randall was call1nii

her between Interviews to update her on what was happening. Please understand I have no way of
confirming if Randall actually did this. This is what i was told. I clearly recall Brenda telling me the
Hispanic female was doing a phone interview while driving her daughter to college. i assumed this
meant I did not need to worry. Brenda contacted me several times during the day while I was preparing
for the intei:lll.ew.. I. did return. calls 1.11.Ussed... i. do nnt recalL. am¡ other si;iecifJe earom.ents beinii r.n.ade..1.

was so excited and nervous for this interview and honestly wanted the position. i thought she was
trying to help but found it odd she was talking to Randall and that Mr. Gasaway had so removed her
from the Interview process. i do not recall how I learned that a situation occurred between Brenda and
Mr. Gasaway last spring but do believe she made mention to it during the phone calls. I do not have
Snecifies as to what bai;ii;iened... i. lUstkne.w of a sI1Uatioo.. Bi:enda seotse.veraJ. f.riendJ~ text messalEls
Inquiring on how the interview went. i communicated i felt it went well and that Mr. Gasaway stated he

would contact me on Monday. i do recall Brenda stating that Randall told her that Mr. Gasaway shared
with the Interview team that he interviewed me when i was going through the principal pool
Interview
process, I interviewed well, and I appeared to be the best candidate (at least on paper). Brenda's
comDlllOJcatioo. roade. me to helieve. i. more than IikeJi¡ ascertained. the. r,i.ositioo. atlasr;ier- i. do
remember Brenda asking me to call her on Monday when i heard something. J corresponded with
Brenda due to the fact i thought the communication was genuine and encouraging. I spoke with Mr.
Gasaway at or around 2:42 pm. i took the news that I did not obtain the position very hard. I truly

y "',
 CJ-S'52,lIì

thought I Interviewed well and would be selected. I was at m~ house throughout the entire
process. I was very discouraged. Brenda and I spoke frequently on Monday as 1 anticipated Mr.

Gasawal( s calL. L texted. ber that I. did not iyrt. the. niisìtinii and was. asked to calL. her to taJk.ahoU!. wbat

happened. This was a brief call due to the fact I took the news hard. Brenda was very supportive and
stated she felt bad. I Included the entire phone bill to show there was no additional contact throughout

this time frame. I told mvi.3nd boyfriend i felt uncomfortable with the content of many of her text

messages. Both have stated you are welcome to call them as to their recollection of the events. My
6 Darnei; fu .!J Her nbone nJJIDher i 63 Mil bm¡frierids name is RobertGarcia..
His number is 972-979-7304. Both Individuals know I did not have a social friendship with Brenda prior
to this process. I honestly looked forward to the opportunity to work with Mr. Gasaway and Jasper High
SchooL. While i took the failure to obtain the position hard, i understood Mr. Gasaway and his team
determined I was not the best fit. i understood that; however, felt like I was built up to believe 1 was the
best candidate b\¡ Brenda.

i did not see Brenda until the principal meetings at the beginning of the school year. She sat with me
Ò/H'mc (NJlt of the meetmc;mod dlsc/lSsed her desire to' become an assistant eri.7ckNII. She asked me to'

not share what occurred during the Jasper interview with anyone - repeatedly. i believe text messages
were sent in encouragement at ascertaining an assistant principal position but over time it became clear
it was her main objective to get me to leave Plano so she could fill my position. She has repeatedly
shared with me that If I left Dr. Dean and Tracy will put her in my position. During this tlmeframe i
didn't find it odd she w.ìsbed to return to Plano Senior.H¡iib SebooJ to wor.k as an assistant prlnci,iiaL J
just didn't know how much she wanted my position. Brenda periodically made contact with me
throughout the school year. The only time she made contact was to share job openings she found. It
made me uncomfortable. i shared this with Karin Ball, my secretary, m~ and my boyfriend. The
job openings were not limited to Plano. They were outside Plano also. i recall one conversation where I
toJd Brenda J was not interested in Jeali.iiW Plano at this time idistrjct or sebootl J was hap,oy and
wanted some consistency. Brenda shared with me she talked to Dusty Jennings. She shared that if she
didn't take my position, maybe she could take Dusty's when he retired. She stated Dusty told her he
was going to Austin to look Into retirement. I did not share or discuss this with Dusty. i did not feel it
was my place. i also recall Brenda forwarding an email to me regarding a position in curriculum. Brenda
forwarded an email Me- Gasaway sent out to the staff .maklf\!l them aware of the position. Brenda sent
It because she felt it was right up my alley. At this point, i had had it with the emails and the soliciting of
my job. I told Brenda I couldn't afford a pay cut and wasn't Interested. After meeting with you, I tried
recalling a conversation i may have had with Brenda in regards to a position in McKinney ISO. i am not
100% sure i actually told Brenda this. Brenda and I have had limited contact since last summer. I do
remember telUf\!I Brenda J wasn't interested Jeayif\!l the district .because J .had .no desire to start olieL
Tracy Franco called me about the McKinney position. She wanted to know If i was going to apply. i told
her that i knew the new superintendent. I worked for Dr. Kennedy and Dr. Davis in Allen. Tracy and I
both live in Allen and it is not out of the norm to discuss Allen iSO. Tracy asked me if i was going to wait
It out and be patient for a promotion. I told her yes. We discussed me contacting Roxanne Burleson to
good
discuss my career as,oirations in Plano. I have yet to do this. I do know Tracy and Brenda are

friends but i am not 100% sure I told Brenda. Brenda called me a few weeks back to discuss an interview

~
 CJ-- S52.\11

she had at Shepton. She wanted my thoughts on the fact the principal told her she'd let her know In a
day but then called her back and stated It would be longer. Brenda called me shortly afterwards and did
i:intleaiie.ainessai¡¡,e lcaJJ.ed.her. back.to see wbat.!ibe oeeded.anJibIDle. ontbeard. from. her. ae¡lÍJL i.

lessened communication with her throughout the school year as It became more and more
uncomfortable to talk to her. The only purpose for the calls or text messages was to determine when I
was planning on leaving Plano. I had no intentions In leaving Plano nor have i made any strides to do so.
What i thought was once genuine, friendly communication soon became apparent as attempts to assist
me. io.!.eauio¥, Plano...

It is very possible Brenda's perception was she was being helpfuL. I understand that. A culmination of
events 1M me to feel as t~ ¡ llli'S /'IO't iili'f/ted at PIamJ- (liS ¡ disc/JSsed ll#,i¡. you iR (NYs.ml. Tkis is tke

only reason why I shared this with Karin Ball several months later. While I felt uncomfortable with
Brenda's actions, I didn't want Mr. Gasaway to feel obligated to hire me due to the situation. I felt it .
wouiô be more pröfessionai to move fOiWard and give 100% tû my career. Brenda's actions have
deterred me from applying for other positions in the district. I want to be promoted based on my
.knowJeq;,e of .Illy)iúi. bow J perfor.m .my)iúi. and.my reputation as a professinnal.

I am willing to cooperate and assist Mr. Gasaway In any way possible; however, I fear retaliation and
-.¡~'L'lF.FdRRQ. 'i W'ì'i 'í~Ù?15 "t/i'dclSJltun l~ +..71è \ln¡'¡f.tJRkJ(i9lVt.'i. n~ 1F.ß& W'lè Ift'i ~F.JtfiWf6 tL~Î6

protection. I would like to be assured that Brenda not communicate this situation to anyone In the
district other than her direct supervisors. It is of great concern she will share Information that is not
accurate In nature with people I work with; i enjoy my position In Plano ISO and would like to continue

worklng in a positive environment.

It is not my place to judge Brenda. I am uncomfortable with the situation and find this process to be
extremeiy stressful. I take pride in my ability to work as a team player and get along with my co
workers. l f~i Mr. Gasaway rle.serYerl to know if tlie mnfJrle.ntiaUI)I of JiI5 JntenlÍew process was

undermined by Brenda; however, being new to the district did not know what avenues to explore for
help. I also did not wantJii1s. Meyer or Mr. Gasaway to feel i was putting them In a position to hire me
due to a complaint. Mv/§.m~nd I determined it was best to leave well enough alone and move
forward with my career. i appreciate your assistance and willingness to talk to me and help me through
J:hepro=
Thank you for your time and energy in meeting in this matter. My cell phone number iS~if
.fV~ i¡.ilJ~ W'I' "tdditlWUNi 'rl~+¿fUlr~.

Wit~ R~rds, '-j -4. ) ~ 1. . '1

0lõaT ;(, 70I)V ~ 0(.

Tracy L. Ryerson ;l 5- 1.1
~
 1) lift~D
~ curriculum position opening in PISD.txt
j~.r)1
~~: T~~3PM
_.....",... U ¡g&e~
subject: curriculum position opening in PISD
Attachments: Fwd: farewell
FYI. . . I know you mi ss worki ng in curri cul um. Look who just resi gned???
Thought of you. . . and our recent conversati on of you mi ssi ng thi s ki nd of stuff.. .AND
you coul d sti 11 stay wi th PISD.

It was forwarded from Mr. Gasaway to our admin staff.

penny for your thoughts.. .maybe God is looking out for the two of us...

Brenda
~~~ wendy Despain 11/16/2009 11:49 AM ~~~
Hello to all,

I wou1 d 1 i ke to share some news wi th my PISD fri ends.

I have accepted a position as Head of school at a private pre-school here in plano.
It is called The Grove school, and it is focused on preparing students for success
in Kindergarten and thereafter through a strong curricular program in language arts,
reading, math, and science, as well as in the arts and environmental education. The
Grove school is a green school that will be almost self-sufficient and totally
organic; it is expected to become an elite, unique, and genuine preparatory school.
It is still being built, out of all recycled materials, and will be located near
iegacy and independence. It wi 11 open in January and have a 144 occupancy of 3 - 5
year olds. I am very excited about the opportunity to become re-acquainted with
early childhood, my life long passion, and to establish myself at a campus once
agai n.
with opportunity and change come trepidation and sadness as well. I am petrified of
leaving the public school system i so strongly advocate and know so well. I am also
very sad to leave all the friends, colleagues, and students with whom I have shared
and from whom i have learned for almost 15 years. It is scary to venture into the
unknown but i am fueled by my desi re to make a difference in the lives of children
and get back in the trenches. interestingly, I expect many of my students to
transition into Plano public schools or some surrounding private schools.

FYI
My 1 ast day is: l1L2_0/09.
My home email is: tlll ; .- ~ _ SS2..\'SÎ,
My new work email, available after the 2 th wi1l be: ~
i cherish my time spent here, and I would love to stay in touch. I am filled with
such strong and diverse emotions right now; i have to have faith that when I step
into the darkness before me, i will either be provided land on which to walk or i
will learn to fly. (borrowed from a quote.. .of course:))

Take care & enjoy your day

"Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. if you love
what you are doing, you will be successful." -- Albert schweitzer (1875-1965)
wendy DeSpai n,
NClB coordi nator
wendy. despai n@pisd.edu
page 1
 cu r r; cul um pas; t; on open; ng ; n PISD. txt
469-752-8298 (phone)
469-752-8035 (Fax)
Department of Assessment & Accountabil; ty
plano iso
2700 W. 15th St.
plano, TX 75075

page 2
 Curriculum position with PISD.txt
... l ¡ IT : 1 ni¡jilih

iIØ 186 !i'llfill í l!

.. ; 2 ; Y'trnllo: 37 AM
Date:
subj ect: curri cul um posi ti on wi th PISD

Hey Tracy,

Did you get this email? It's a curriculum position within our district. see
below... .
Brenda
Brenda smi th
Dean of Students
Jasper Hi gh school
469-752-7516
"Be the change you wi sh to see in the worl d"

~~~ Jeff Gasaway 11/16/2009 2: 28 PM ~~~

fyi
~~~ wendy Despai n 11/16/2009 11:49 AM ~~~
Hello to all,

I waul d 1 i ke to share some news wi th my PISD fri ends.

I have accepted a position as Head of School at a private pre-school here in plano.
It is called The Grove school, and it is focused on preparing students for success
in Kindergarten and thereafter through a strong curricular program in language arts,
reading, math, and science, as well as in the arts and environmental education. The
Grove school is a green school that will be almost self-sufficient and totally
organic; it is expected to become an elite, unique, and genuine preparatory school.
It is still being built, out of all recycled materials, and will be located near
Legacy and independence. It wi 11 open in January and have a 144 occupancy of 3 - 5
year 01 ds. I am very exci ted about the opportuni ty to become re-acquai nted wi th
ear1y childhood, my life long passion, and to establish myself at a campus once
agai n.
wi th opportuni ty and change come trepi dati on and sadness as well. i am petri fi ed of
leaving the public school system I so strongly advocate and know so well. I am also
very sad to leave all the friends, colleagues, and students with whom I have shared
and from whom i have learned for almost 15 years. It is scary to venture into the
unknown but i am fueled by my desire to make a difference in the lives of children
and get back in the trenches. interesti ngl y, I expect many of -my students to
transition into plano public schools or some surrounding private schools.

FYI
My 1 ast day is: 11¿ig/09.

J
~ _ $52.\37 '-.
My home email is: OIl I'"
My new work email , avaiãlîi e after the 20t wi 11 be: ti

I cherish my time spent here, and I would love to stay in touch. I am filled with
such strong and diverse emotions right now; I have to have faith that when I step
into the darkness before me, I will either be provided land on which to walk or I
will learn to fly. (borrowed from a quote.. .of course:))

Take care & enjoy your day

"success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. if you love
what you are doing, you will be successful." -- Albert schweitzer (1875-1965)
page 1
 Curriculum position with PISD.txt

wendy Despai'n,
NClS coordinator

wendy. despa; n@p;sd.edu

469-752-8298 (Phone)
469-752-8035 (Fax)
Department of Assessment & Accountab; 1; ty
pl ano iso
2700 w. 15th St.
plano, TX 75075

Page 2

-~',
 for curriculum principal.txt

.. J/III
Date:
subject: principal
Renner Middle school Asst. principal? i hear it's fòr a

Just curious. I did. .but I have no experience in it so I would just welcome the
opportunity to interview. who knows?? But I know you would probably get it due to
your back ground.

HOW was your winter break?

Take care,
Brenda
Brenda Smi th
Dean of students
Jasper High school
469-752-7516
"Be the change you wi sh to see in the worl d"

Page 1
 ~ ~
~~~.
Date: _~ 4:08 PM
Re opening for curriculum principal.txt

subject: ' Re: opening for curriculum principal

wow... i think i recall her coming from that back ground but wasn't sure. I know you
are 1 ooki ng for a cur ri cul um job so i thought about you... as i always do when
looking for jobs for myself.

I woul d LOVE to come work wi th you. i'll have to pray that the Lord bl esses her wi th
it and perhaps I could come home and work with YOU!!! i! We would have so much fun!!

Thinking of you.. .always,

Brenda
Brenda smith
Dean of students
Jasper Hi gh school
469-752-7516
"Be the change you wi sh to see in the worl d"

~~~ ~,,,n " tracy.ryerson@pisd.edu ~ ~4:05 PM ~~~

Nope. I didn't. i'm not sure i want middle school plus Karin is
looking at it

sent from my i phone

on ~eIlWIDa~, at 3: 39 PM, "m éHEI_III'Î~' " Brenda.smith@pisd. edu ~

wrote:
~ Are you applying for the Renner Middle school Asst. principal? i
~ hear it's for a curriculum position.
~
~ Just curious. I did. .but i have no experience in it so i would just
~ welcome the opportunity to interview. who knows?? But i know you
~ would probably get it due to your back ground.
~
~ How was your wi nter break?
~
~ Take care,
~ Brenda
~
~ Brenda Smi th
~ Dean of students
~ Jasper High school
~ 469-752-7516
~
~ "Be the change you wi sh to see in the worl d"
~

page 1
I \4/5720ToJ~äriJtôš~tïPr,~ -. S!~~rii'ii:nT: .,. : ":d-.:.::.::: .d::~::":d:~::..:'..::"d::=::::::d_'...::'.::: ::d:: ":':~~Qedi

From: Tracy Ryerson

To: Patty. Meyer@pisd.edu,Tamira.Griffin@pisd,edu
Date: 3/1/2010 10:44 PM
Subject: Statement
Attachments: brenda smith2.doc

Ms. Griffin and Ms. Meyer,

Attached is a copy of my statement. I wili bring a signed copy and ceil phone bills in the morning. I was
only able to print the month of the interview, the prior month, and July. i can print the entire school year if
needed. This will only demonstrate I basically cut off communication as the year progressed.

Thank you for your time this afternoon in helping me work through this situation. I tried expressing the
hurt It caused but can't recall all the specifics due to the time that has lapsed. I outlined the timeline as
accurately as possible.

Again, many thanks. I appreciate your time and energy. It meant a lot.

Tracy
 March 26,2010
Statement given by: Patty Meyer, AAS West Cluster
Statement regarding meeting with Brenda Smith on 2/24/1 0

Tamira Griffin, Brenda Smith and I were in attendance for this meeting.
Tamira asked Brenda if she had been in contact with Tracey Ryerson regarding the
assistant principal interviews at Jasper HS in June of2009. Brenda stated she had not as
she was not on the interview panel and she had already left for the summer. It was
asked of her if anyone on the panel had contact with her regarding the candidates
and/or anything that went on in the interviews? Brenda said, "No." Tamira asked
did anyone on the panel e-mail you, call you, text you or did you e-mail, call or text
anyone on the panel regarding the candidates and how the interviews were going?
Tamira asked Brenda ir Jeff Gasaway had contacted her, irRandaH Chaddick had
contacted her or anyone else on the panel? Brenda replied, "No," to each of these
questions. Brenda did state that she could not remember exactly, she may have contacted
Tracey Ryerson about 2 or 3 times regarding job opportunities, but she did not tell her
anything about candidates and/or the interview process.

At one point in the meeting Brenda handed me a packet, log, of thoughts on concerns
she had with Jeff Gasaway and his leadership as well as the administrative team at
Jasper HS. I told Brenda that this was not what this meeting was about, but I would
read it and both Tamira and I would review it at a later date. Should there be anything
we saw as concerning it would be followed-up on. I also told Brenda I would get with
her prior to spring break regarding the information she handed to me. (Both Tamira and I
read this separately and agreed there was no information or concern expressed to address.
I have not had the opportunity to follow-up Brenda as this investigation is still being
Conducted and did not want to confuse the issues.)

Prior to the conclusion of the meeting Tamira gave Brenda the directive to discuss
this no one. Tamira said you cannot talk to anyone about this. Brenda stated she
felt bad is Tracey Ryerson was upset because she thought Brenda was trying to
get her job and Plano SHS. Tamira was specific is saying you cannot contact Tracey
to discuss this at all.

Brenda did ask me ifher boss knew about this? I said, "Yes, but he did not initiate this
concern." Tamira did tell Brenda that ifshe remembered anything else to let us know.

Brenda did follow-up with an e-mail on 2/2411 0 at 5:58 p.m. addressed to both
Tamira Griffin and me stating that she was embarrassed with unedited version ofthe
information she had given to me at the meeting regarding administrative team and Jeff.

She also said that since her last entry things had improved and turned around for the
"good. .,

lJ

~:ir .",
 March 26, 20 I 0
Statement given by: Patty Meyer, AAS West Cluster
Statement regarding 3/4/10 meeting with Randall Chaddick

Tamira Griffin, Randall Chaddick, and I were in attendance at this meeting.

Tamira shared with Randall that we trying to work through some information
and that we were hopeful he would be able to provide us with pieces that would
help clarify the situation. We asked Randall ifhe was part of the Jasper HS interview
panel for assistant principal in June 2009? Randall said he was on the paneL. We asked
him ifhe had at anytime visited with Brenda about the candidates that the panel was
interviewing? Randall said, no, she was not on the panel and she was gone from the
campus for the summer at that time. Tamira asked Randall if he had communicated in
any way to Brenda regading the interviews? She asked bye-mail, text, phone calls
whether it was from him to her or perhaps she had contacted him?
Randall said he really did not remember, but he did not think that any communication
had taken place at that time. Tamira was specific with the example of one candidate
that had a conference interview because she was driving he child to college. Tamira
asked how he thought Brenda might have gotten that information. He said he did not
know; he also said because he could not remember they may have visited, but it had
been so long ago he could not say.

Tamira asked Randall ifhe had heard anything from Brenda regarding her meeting with
us. He said he had gone into her office when she returned to the campus after the
meeting because she had told him prior to coming over here that she and I had a meeting.
She was hopeful or had thought it was to visit about moving to another campus next year.
She told him after he asked that she could not talk about it, but he might get called in as
welL.

Tamira told Randall ifhe recalled anything else to let us know. Randall did follow-up
with an e-mail dated 3/4/10 at 5:29 p.m. He just stated that he and Brenda have visited
on the phone so as not to use work time to discuss Brenda feeling hurt and discouraged
at times. He once again said he did not remember many conversations once she left for
the summer until they returned to work.

~.~ Lf/ çJ!ö

 AFFIDAVIT
My name is Tamira Griffin, I am employed by Plano Independent School District

in Plano, Texas.

I am of lawful age, sound mind, and am personally acquainted with the

information given herein. I became acquainted with said Information during the
course and performance of my employment as Executive Director for Human
Resources for Plano ISD.

On or about the morning of February 24, 2010, Patty Meyer, Assistant

Superintendent for the West Cluster, and I met with Jasper Administrative
Intern, Brenda Smith. We discussed with Ms. Smith the concerns of Plano Senior
High School Assistant Principal, Tracy Reyerson, regarding communication from
Ms. Smith to her in regard to job opportunities. Ms. Reyerson had expressed
that she felt Ms. Smith wanted to return to work at Plano Senior High School and
that if Ms. Reyerson were to get another job it would open up a spot for Ms.
Smith to move into.

In the course of the conversation with Ms, Smith, I gave her a verbal directive to
not discuss our conversation with anyone other than Ms. Meyer or myself. I
asked Ms. Smith if she understood my directive and she stated that she did. Ms.
Smith asked Ms. Meyer if her principal, Jeff Gasaway, was aware of her meeting
with us. .Ms. Meyer told Ms. Smith that Mr. Gasaway was aware we were
meeting. At no time did Ms. Smith ask about discussing the issues with Mr.
Gasaway, nor was permission granted for her to do so.

Ms, Smith indicated that she did not know Ms. Reyerson well and had probably
only communicated with her two to four times total. Ms. Smith did say that she
had seen Ms. Reyerson in truancy court and at district meetings.
I hereby affirm that the information given herein is true and correct to the best
of my knowledge.

~di& ~~
Tamira Griffin
3-2A..rID
Date Signed

Affirmed and subscribed before me by Tamira Griffin on this, the i26 fk day
of 'lÝ/M'ch. , 2010.
ßk#r M~""-1~~C ANDREA HOFFMAN
. . Notiry PubUç
. Stite of Texu
~o,~ Comm. Ex¡iI~ 07.10.2010
3/24/10 Brenda Smith-
Responses from 3/12/1 0 with Larry Frasier and Burt Rosebure, P1SD Security Police Specialists. To the
best of my abilities and understanding, these are the true facts of what r recalL.
._--~---------------------------------------------------.-.-._.-------_.---------------.._-----------------------------_.--.----

1a. When r went to talk to Tamira and Patty what was I told not to discuss.
Answer: "not to talk to anyone regarding this issue". The last thing I asked after this was stated to me was
whether or not Jeff Gasaway knew why I was there (the purpose) and Patty said that he did know why I
was there,

lb. Who did I tell, date, time and location and what was discussed.
Answer: "Jeff Gasaway, my building Principal. In his office after letting him know that I was back in the
building from my meeting.
Answer: Discussion. I documented the following after this occurred in his office. This is what was
discussed:
Meeting with Jeff in his office: Door was closed and no one else was in the room.
After I left the meeting with Tamira and Patty, I went back to Jasper High SchooL. As I entered the
building I went to his office just to let him know that I was back from the meeting. I said, URi Jeff, I just
wanted to let you know that I am back in the office." This was my true intention of going into his office. He
was standing up and turned around and said, "Is everything OK?" I just looked at him for a few seconds
and then said, "Jeff... Patty has let me know that you already know why I was there." He shook his head up
and down once then said, "Are you OK?" I then told him that I was shocked about being there because I
thought I was there to discuss the possibilities of me moving to another schooL. I also shared with him that I
had given them (Patty Meyer) some notes on the reasons as to why I wanted to move to work under
different leadership. He shook his head up and down. He then sat down at his desk. I told him that I would
be "OK" as I told him that I had answered the questions honestly based on what I knew about the situation
but that rjust don't recall too much because it happened almost a year ago. I told him that I don't know
much because even he (you) knew I wasn't part of the hiring (or Randall) to which I knew you (Jeft) could
verify this. He nodded his head up and down. He then said, "well, don't forget you texted me ahout Tracy
Franco giving her a good reconunendation". I did pause a few seconds and replied, uoh yeah...I forgot
about that" He then asked again, 'lwell.. . are you going to be OK? I said I just felt railroaded and confused
because I was asked all these questions and I couldn't understand it. He said, "Yeah?". I said llyeah.. .like if
Dr. Dean promised me a job and you and I both know I would like to move up to the senior high level
whether it be at West, Senior or East." And he nodded his head up and down as I stated this. He then said,
"well.. ..let me know if there is anything r can do for you". I told him that I would be OK butthat this was a
surprise to me. I then got up and left his office and went to my office to begin working. This was ALL that
was said. This was documented after I left his office.
I now look back at this situation above and think and wonder how could have I have succumbed to this in a
moment of emotional weakness...1 have now learned my lesson, My only response is that I let my
emotions and my insecurities with Jeff get the best of me and I wanted to somehow be heard by him since
he had asked me "if everything was Ok".. .since there has been so much tension, stress and my unhappiness
of having to work for him. I kept a jouinal of situations and the environment I have had work in for this

school year and had given it to Patty Meyer as a result of my choosing and asking to move schools two
weeks prior to this meeting between Larry, Bart and myself. I had believed at the time of my meeting with
Patty Meyer that the meeting was initially to discuss why I wanted to move schools, This is when I gave
Patty my journal writings regarding what I had been going through with Jeff, up to and including how
Nevert Moses got the AP job at PESH when i knew she wasn't a certified teacher much-less a certified
principal (took the test 5 or 6 times and still had not passed it ) and STILL got the AP job at PESH despite
me being certified in special education and as a principaL. Patty asked me how I knew this and I told her
that Nevert Moses had told me and that we were friends, This school never even called me to let me know
that a decision had been made. I found out by a text message from Nev saying, "I got iLl got it". I inquired
to Jeff about no one calling me and he told me not to call them tolet them call. "no one ever did.

My error in an emotionallack of judgment (at the time) was made when speaking with my own building

principal has been deemed as "insubordinate" by Tamira Griffin, Director ofHR. The price I have to pay
and has indeed, been a lesson well-leamed, The action was my failure to follow directions from Patty

i
 L..J-"))¿.' i I

Meyer and Tamira Griffin to "not talk about it". Please understand with all due respect and sincerity that I
didn't do it intentionally, it wasn't planned, or even anticipated. I have never.. .ever in my life..ever been
involved in anything like this. I have never..ever been reprimanded, in trouble, or had any deàlings of
this
nature and it has indeed taken an emotional toll on myself..and m~I often ponder how could I, in

a moment of weakness allowed myself speak to any degree aboudlW;itiIitton.. ..especially to a person I no
longer wanted to work for.

I have a few thoughts of my own that i can't help but to wonder: Please understand that I accept
responsibility for my actions and am not blaming him for my actions. However, I further question his
leadership in "his participation of the conversation" compounded by the uchal1enged" professional
relationship we have had both in tiie past and present. I can't help but wonder if Patty had shared with him

my journal writings of instances of my unhappiness as to why I wanted to move schools.

Jeffused to work in HR. As my building principal, my ¡'leader" my "mentor" or someone looking

out for my best interest and to help me grow,... that if he felt that any part of this discussion was
inappropriate or against rules since he knew why I was asked to meet with Patty and Tamira (because I was
told by Patty that Jeff did know why I was there to meet with them)...i can't help but to wonder why
wouldn't he, as my leader, as a former HR employee say something.. ,anything".remlnd me or say
something like H let's not talk about this,. .or in situations like this no discussion should take place., .or I
want to caution you about the fact that you should not discuss anything to anyone so lets stop. At no time
did he make any attempt to prevent, change the subject or stop the conversation.
I went into his office for the sale purpose to inform him that I was back in the building. It was not
to have this discussion for which I have been placed on administrative leave with pay. He asked me a broad
and open-ended question when I got there and it went from there. I have been placed on Administrative
leave for insubordination. ,. ,because he told them of our discussion and it appears the HR letter was ready
for me on Friday before I even got there to the Admin building.
I know that Jeff had told them because I was asked by Larry if! had talked to anyone about the
issue and I innnediately responded "my building principal, Jeff Gasaway". To me... this is yet just another
example or attempt, or lack of, to further harass me and has yet failed me again with his leadership abilities
because it could have been prevented. Yes, by me not going into his office, taking the bait of answering an
open-ended question, but by him taking a more perhaps preventative leadership initiative TOle to look out
for my best interest. He did begin the discussion by asking if everything was alright.... when he knew I why
I was there to begin with and I called him on it. Jeff knows me welL., .and I feel as though I fell into his trap
and here I am. Right where he wants me. Especially ifhe knew what I had provided to Patty in writing.

2.To the best of my recollection, the following is what I recall from any corrununication with Tracy
Ryerson. I am truly sorry but I do not recall any more than what is stated here. As I told Patty and Tamira, I
wished this would have been addressed at the time so I could be more helpful in any way but I just don't
recall specific details of the incident. My phone records are archived and only show 5 or 6 phone calls with

a few one minute on my cell. On this archived information it does not show any of my ingoing or outgoing
text message numbers. I can tellyou that I have hundreds of text messages (give or take) on a monthly
basis with friends, families and other people.

I will also state that at each opportunity, when these questions were addressed) that I have been nothing but
honest in my answers at the time of questioning and that I am not intentionally, maliciously hiding anything
or any infonnation from anyone. I have been truthful with my answers based on what I recalL.. .but it's not
fair to say that I have been placed on administrative paid leave for "and/or dishonesty". I have always had
high regards to adhering to school policy and procedures and have done everything I can to exemplify and
demonstrate ethical, moral, and excellent character values.
As time has progressed, I have recalled additional memories and I was told by both Patty and Tamira that
if! recalled anything to let them lmow. As I told Burt and Larry, I was waiting to hear back from Patty
Meyer as she said she would get back with me before spring break regarding the information I had given
her about Jeff, which included my questions and concerns about Nevert Moses getting the job over me
based on our obvious differences qualifications.

¥
I am unable to determine dates but it was primarily around the time Tracy Ryerson was interested in the
Curriculum position that was open at our schooL. There were some occasions of telephone calls, texting
and seeing one another in person. I have seen her on occasion during the school year at Principal meetings
and truancy court. I don't know that I would consider her as a friend but instead as a professional colleague.

Some things I recall between the conversations between Tracy Ryerson and myself.:

I actually met Tracy Ryerson in ù,iancy court last year. i only recognized her by the name on her badge. i
recall her telling me that she liked her school but was hoping to get back into cuniculum. There was some
discnssion about a job that was open with McKinney ISD and that they were looking for an AP and that she
knew some people'in that district if! was interested in the job. We exchanged numbers in court after she
encouraged me to look into it. i never did though. I believed that my time and place will happen with
getting an AP position with PISD. I have already been on several interviews but they keep hiring their own

Deans to which I cannot argue that at alL. I only argue the hiring of Nevert Moses over me. ..despite it being
her school where she worked as their Criminal Justice teacher but was never a certified teacher or principal
and she still got the job over me.
i recall seeing Tracy in either truancy court or in a principal meeting and her indicating that she was not
happy with her job and that if she could just get a job somewhere it would "open üp my position and you
could slide into my jobn. The last time she said this to me was earlier this year at a principal's meeting and
she again had stated how nnbappy sbe was with her job. She said that she bopes she could just get another
job and tben I could "move into her job and that she would feel really good about it knowing ber kids
would be taken good care of'. Both times.. ..and again, I reiterate.. .she initiated this. II of course, would
(for starters) love to be promoted as any Dean hopes for. It is no secret to anyone that i like working with
the senior high level only because of all the extra curricular activities, pep rallies, getting them ready for
college, lots of opportunities for leadership growth, grandiose basketball and football games.. .it's a
different culture and climate that I worked in for five years. Yes, I miss it. Howeveri I also enjoy working
with high school students too but it's just different at the senior ,high level and those kids, curriculum,

expectations, community needs.

I recall a phone call or a text from Tracy Ryerson that generated communication between the two of us. I

just recall that the communication in whatever form was initiated by her be it via cell, call to my home or
text I recall that within this first conversation that Tracy Ryerson told me that Tracy Franco had told her to
call me regarding a new curriculum position that had opened at my schooL. r recall her saying something to
the affect of "what do I need to do.. .you know what are they looking for...r really want this position". r
was not involved in the interviewee process and I believe she asked me something about if lknew who was
all interviewing or something. Which I did not. I recall saying something about doing what one would do
when coming to a new schoo1. I think I even shared that what I did before interviewing at Jasper is that i
looked at their AEIS report to become lmowledgeah1e with the school data, demographics, obvious needs,
trends or whatever. I recall her saying that she really wanted to get back into curriculum and just really
wanted to do whatever it took to get this job. i believe that she had mentioned some of her experience in

curriculum and how she could belp our school but i don't recall how she would intend to do this. I believe
she discussed some programs or something she has done with other schools in curriculum but r don't recall

what that was in detaiL.

I have also spoke with my now then husband (Vance) over spring break to see ifhe could help me recall

any information regarding the phone calls or texts between Tracy Ryerson and myself from last swnmer
regarding this information. He took a few moments and said"... is she the one who was calling and texting
and asking about the job at your school or something? He just told me that he recalls her texting me about
questions about the job and that she was nervous or something. He also said, "there was calling and texting
between myself and her a few times. Vance also said "wasn't she the one who was upset because she
didn't get the job.. ...something about she thought she was the wrong color or something?". Vance said he
recalled that I was hoping that she would get the job so maybe it would open up ajob for me at her school
so I could go back to PSHS since 1 was unhappy at Jasper.

.~
During this time, Vance recollected some things regarding the text messages that helped me recall some
information. In Vance's words, "she had anxiety.. .was worried or something and was asking ifyau heard
anything or something.. .ohh and when she texted you to say she didn't get it" is what he remembers. Sad
that he can recall this but! didn't until he said something to help recollect my memory to some things. This
information has indeed helped me recall some details of some text messages that are being alleged that
were made between Tracy Ryerson and myself,
Since speaking to my then husband and his help in remembering thingsi I have recalled some texts

between us. I recall her sending a few texts once she had interviewed and before she interviewed. I believe
I got a text indicating when she would be interviewing, I do recall texting back to her responses most
times...! guess. From what! can recall she would send me texts saying something to the affect to her
feeling anxious or maybe nervous and I believe I would have probably texted back for her to pray about it
and to thinkpositive because! try to stay positive and keep the Lord in my circle. ! remember texting
something about having faith or something to help settle her nerves or anxiety she was having. i also recall

her texting me, "have you heard anything?" (this was after she interviewed) on more than one occasion. I
know I probably said something like uno..I haven't" because I didn't know. I believe she did ask if! knew
how many were interviewing for the job to which I would have only been able to tell her that I didn't
because I don't and still don't how many people had interviewed. I do recall a text from her that asked if!

knew how the interviews were going? And a text that said, "any w01'd~br., .somethìng to this affect. I
believe I may have gotten a text regarding if I knew when a decision was going to be made which I did not
have the answer to, JefIsent out an email indicating who was named as the person who had t.i.e job and
that's when I found out.

I do recall a separate conversation over the phone after she had actually interviewed. I believe she said
something to the affect of her feeling good about her interview and something to the affect of Jeff Gasaway
grabbing her arm or touching her arm or something and saying that he would be in touch with her
soon. ,.something to this affect as he walked her out of the office. I think she may have even said that he
either winked or made some kind of facialJhead gesture which she believed made her feel good about her
interview as he had touched or placed his hands on her arm. I also recall her mentioning that he would be
"in touch with her real soon" before she left I recall her feeling really good about how Jeff responded to
her and felt that maybe she had got the job. ! recall her te11íng me what they asked her (but I don't recall

what questions) something about how she had analyzed the Jasper AEIS report and what she could do to
make something improve some area based on the report but I don't recall what it was.

I believe she texted me to say that she didn't get the job. I thínk it was something like leI didn't get it",

! recall feeling badly for her that she didn't get it because she said she was so hopeful by Jeffs demeanor
(facial expression and physical contact and that him indicating that he would be in touch with heF real soon)
and knowing what Tracy Franco had to say about her. She was upset because of the mixed message he gave
her and her feeling let down as she later had founà out that she didn't get the job.

! also recall and emailed Patly Meyer and Tamira Griffin on the day! met with them that! recall getting a
phone call from Tracy Ryerson after she had learned that she was not selected for the Jasper position. She
sounded very upset to the point of being mad when she said something to the affect of, IIwel!.. I didn't get
it.. What was it? "come on.... you can tell me... what do you know?". I said something to the affect of
letting her know that! didn't know anything. Sbe also asked me ifl knew the person who got it which! did
not actually know this person much less who she was. I truly had never met her and knew nothing about
her. She then asked something like "just tell me. ..come on you can tell me..... ..what color is she?? I
replied" 1 don't know". ****What I have since recalled is that I had told her that I guess she could have
looked on the website where all of our pictures arc to find out." She then said angrily, "never mind.J
already know the answer., ..I'm not the right color.. .you don't have to say anything." That is all I recall

from this conversation at this time.

When Jeff reminded me on my return to school not to "forget that I texted him saying Tracy Franco had
given her a good recommendation" I had even forgotten about this until Jeff said something. Because I
didn't know Tracy Ryerson, or her background) 1 called Tracy Franco (a good friend of mine) and inquired
about her. Tracy Franco did tell me that she had told Tracy Ryerson to give me a call about the position and
to talk to me to see if I knew anything about it since I worked at the schooL. I recall Tracy Franco saying
that she "looks good on paper, is over qualified for the AP position at PSHS and knows her background

¥
was very strong in curriculum and that she interviews very well," She also said that Tracy Ryerson wanted
to get back into curriculum. I .lso recall Tamira Griffin asking me if I thought Tracy Ryerson "looks good
on paper" to which I have not seen any paper and tills quote was actually said to me by Tracy Franco.

It was some time after this that I texted Jeff to let him lmow that Tracy Franco gave her a good
recommendation. He replied, "thanks".

I recall that I had some kind of conversation with Tracy Ryerson shortly thereafter (not sure of the day or
timing) but that I had shared with her what Tracy Franco had shared with me about her. I think it's
important that people hear what others say about them ...especially ifit's positive.

3. What was I told by Randall or anyone else about the conversation of the "application process"? Who
could I have told this information to.

I don't recall having a conversation with Randall or anyone else about the "application process". I just
recall that one person who was interviewing did so by phone and another person (Tracy Ryerson) did so in

person. I don't know who the person was who called in by phone for their interview, their credentials or
anything identifying them. I am unable to indicate who or how I knew about this person because I wasn't
involved in the interviewing or hiring process at alL. I do recall Jeff telling me that Tracy Ryerson was
interested in the job. Which generated me to take the initiative to call Tracy Franco to find out more about
her and a candidate and I sent Jeffthe text that Tracy Franco gave her a good recommendation.

I will state that I resent the fact that Larry Fra'li.er stated that because I have a degree in Criminal Justice,
worked as a CPS investigator and worked with police.. . and that he could tell that I was smart and that I am
articulate and he could see it when J walked through the door when I was asked to come to the Admin bldg.
that people with these backgrounds remember these things and that I should be able recall lnfonnation from
four years ago let alone a year ago. He then asked who I was "protecting" and I said no one. I told him I
just don't recall how I obtained this information.

I am not going to speculate as to "whom I could have told this information to". If! was sure I would tell

you the name. That is the truth.

Larry also told me that to share another interviewees infonnation with another person would be
"unethical". I just looked at him. What I don't understand is why is it that when I have interviewed with

Burt Smith, Sara Bonser, and Sheela Daniels when I called to set up my interviews I was told things such
as: IIThat's not a good time, another candidate has a meeting and tha1's the only time he is can come" and
I'That interview slot is taken because she has to pick up her child..so sorry" and "I have four of you to set
up and you can have the first pick since you called first". My question? This is making no sense to me why
I am being asked who I would have or could've told that a candidate had to call in for an interview.. .and I
don't recall saying this to anyone, However, when I've been an interviewee and have been told by
people/principals about the other candidates I was up against, my question is that are the other principals
"unethical" for sharing other candidates interview times and situations wíth me?? Just because I knew a
candidate had to call in for their interview doesn't say anything else about the candidate? Qualifications?
Name? identifiable information regarding a person? Again, I don't recall how I know this ìrdonnation or
recall telling anyone about the candidate who called in for an interview. I was not involved in the hiring of
applicants nor never saw any of them. I never saw any applications, resumes, who was applying (besides
Tracy Ryerson by Jeff) and I don't know Tracy Ryersons actual background or what her resume even looks
like.

I would stilllike to visit with my area superintendent about the documentation I subnutted to her regarding
my concerns of choosing to move to another school to serve under different leadership as -a Dean and to
further address my questions and concerns of an unqualified person getting the job over a qualified person
for the AP job at PESH.

~\~
, ";

On Wednesday, February 24th, I was off campus from Jasper High SchooL. I arrived back
~
on campus approximately at noon. Within 10 minutes of my arrival to campus, Brenda
Smith ciinie into my office asking ifI had a minute to speak with her. I indicated that I
did and she closed the door. In no way did I ask any questions about how her morning
had gone or how the conversation had gone with Patty Meyer. One reason I was aware of
the conversation occurring with Patty Meyer was because Brenda Smith had blind copied
me on her response to Patty Meyer indicating she would be available on Wednesday at
9:00 to meet.

While I do not recall all parts ofthe conversation, or the word for word description, I do
recall some overall themes. I will also mention that a majority of the conversation I sat
silently listening and provided little to no response throughout the entire conversation.

. Brenda Smith began the conversation by saying that she was aware that I knew
about her conversation earlier in the day with Patty Meyer. Brenda Smith
mentioned that she had asked Patty Meyer if her principal was aware of what was

going on and indicated that Patty Meyer acknowledged that the principal was
aware.
. Brenda Smith went on during this conversation to talk about some of the specifics
about her conversation with Patty Meyer and Tarnira Griffm. Additionally she
felt the need to defend herself and any questions about interactions with a sub-
school principal, Tracy Ryerson, from Plano Senior High SchooL.

. Brenda Smith indicated that there were questions about her sending text messages
to Tracy Ryerson during the interviewing process that took place over the summer
to replace a vacant assistant principal position. Brenda Smith adamantly defended
herself, saying that she had not made any contact with Tracy Ryerson during the
interview except to wish her well. Brenda Smith also acknowledged that she had
no idea of who was interviewing for the position and no idea the make-up of the
interviewees. One ofthe few times I offered any sort of response to Brenda Smith
was to remind her that she had sent me a text message before the interviews
indicating that Tracy Ryerson was well-thought of by Tracy Franco.
. Brenda Smith then went on to discuss recent contact made with Tracy Ryerson.
She said that she had not had any recent contact in any way. She mentioned she
made contact a while back but had not sent any recent text messages, e-mails or
had any phone conversations with Tracy Ryerson.
. One of the fmal discussion points she mentioned from her conversation with Patty
Meyer and Tamira Griffm was a question about if Dr. Doyle Dean had promised
her a position at Plano Senior High SchooL. She indicated to me that her response
was to the effect that she had joked with bim periodically about "keeping her seat
warm in her office" and jokes ofthat nature, but Dr. Dean had never promised her
a position.

0;,'.
While this document does not give a word by word account ofthe conversation, it does
give the overall points of the conversation that occurred. If you have any additional
questions, please let me know.
 PLANO SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
2200 INDEPENDENCE PARKWAY
PLANO, TEXAS 75075
469-752-9300

March 23, 2010

To: Bart Rosebure and Larry Frazier

From: Tracy Franco

Associate Principal for Curriculum and Instruction

Re: Statement concerning interview given on 3-22-2010

I am writing this letter in response to your inqniry on 3-22-2010. Both Mr Rosebure and Mr

Frazier came to my office at approximately 9:00am on Monday March 22nd Dr Dean had
reported to me earilier in a team meeting that they were needing to talk to me.

Mr. Rosebure and Mr. Frazier began by asking me how much information I had shared with
Brenda Smith and Tracy Ryerson about hiring and positions available in the district or at Plano
Senior High School and if I had any knowledge of Brenda actually talking to Tracy or if she just
talked to me and then I talked to Tracy. They also stated that my name kept coming up between
the two as the investigation progressed. I stated that at one time I directed Brenda just to call

Tracy about her intentions. I do not know if that occurred.

I am not sure that I remember all ofthe events as they took place in August of2009. I do know
that Brenda Smith has inquired several times about coming back to the Senior High in a
Subschool Principal role. I understand her goals are to be an Associate Principal at the Senior
High School and that she would need that experience of a Subschool PrincipaL. to move in that
direction of her goals. I have encouraged her throughout her time here at Plano Senior and while
gone, to interview for Assistant Principal positions, supporting her in her goal.

Mr. Rosebure and Mr. Frazier also inquired about my knowledge of what the applicants had said
in the interviews and who had interviewed for what position. I share with both of them, that I do
not know who applies for what position nor do I have knowledge of what was said in the
interviews. I also shared that I do not have any control over who gets on what list to interview
nor do I determine who comes to the Senior High School in Subschool positions.

Mr. Rosebure and Mr. Frazier also inquired as to what chain of command is a Subschool
Principal versus an Assistant at a 9/10 vs an Associate at the Senior High SchooL. I stated that i
was aware that Tracy Ryerson's goals are to be an Associate or a Principal, and that previously
she had been an Associate Principal in Dallas. I also stated that she is very good, and I have
encouraged her to apply for Assistant Pricipal positions at the 9/1 0 in the Curriculum role to help
foster her development. In addition, since Brenda's goals are to be an Associate in Student

~
'~-,
Activities that is a different path to take, but I have encouraged her to apply for Assistant
Principal positions as that is the next step.

Lastly, Mr. Rosebure and Mr. Frazier asked why would Tracy be so interested in leaving Plano
Senior High SchooL. I shared again that the only reason why I thought that Tracy was interested
in leaving is that I understand her goals are to be a building principal and she would need more
experience to do that. Again, I have encouraged Tracy to interview when positions come up so
that she can gain that experience and progress toward her goals.

In addition, Mr. Roseburc and Mr. Frazier asked who was Tracy's direct supervisor. I shared
that Dusty Jennings was the Team Leader for Subschool and that he reports to Mr. Davis, but
that Dr. Dean meets with all of us on our goals and signs off on them.

I sure hope that this Clears up anything, I will, however, continue to support the leaders on my
campus and mentor them and encourage them to interview for positions that might be in their
professional goals.
r&l

J
Tracy W Franco
Associate Principal for Curriculum and Instruction

A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE

:;ia~¡JI:;~
3-3/-ltO

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From: Karin Ball

To: Frazier, Larry; Rosebure, Bart

Date: 3/29/2010 8:32 PM

Subject: memo

At the beginning of the school year, Tracy Ryerson had Interviewed for the job at Jasper and was very defiated that she did
not get It. I asked why she was distraught, and she only said that perhaps this district was not for her, she thought the job
was hers.
A job opening at Shepton came open and I told her she should probably go for that one since she is so qualified. She said
she didn't want to go through that again. She said she had been told some things and didn't want to go through that
again. When pressed about it, she explained that someone had been giving her a piay by play about the Interviews but
didn't want to go into it.
Later, I'm not sure of the tlmeline, we spoke of it again and she was concerned that someone wanted her job. She
Explained further that it was Brenda Smith and she had been telling her the things that had been going on at Jasper
Interviews earlier. She also was encouraging Tracy to go to the interview process again because then that would mean
that she could get her job at PSHS, taking Tracy's position. Tracy and I talked about taiking to Jeff ( as if we were In his
boots). I said wouldn't you want to know if someone you trusted is not being confidential or truthtul. She and I went to
DR. Dean to expialn things to him because Tracy was concerned with her position being taken by Brenda. At that time Dr.
Dean said not to worrf, shelsn1t going anywhere.
Tracy wanted to teil Jeff but didn't know him weil enough to do so. I said I could cail for her to open the doors of
communication If she wanted. I did. He was busy and called back. We talked to him on speaker phone, then she spoke to
him by herself.

Karin Bail
Plano Senior High
Assistant Principal
Delta Sub-School
469-752-9408
Go Wildcats!!

t.l ~'IO
 e~t::is~ .
C ..J -.;)') ¿ .lul-t- CPlMff'1)'A~ r ''''';

G !B Admin. Bldg.
Responses from 3/29/10 with Larry Frasier and Burt Rosebure, PISD Security Police Specialists. To the
best of my abilities and understanding, these are the true facts of what I recall.

la, Question: What do I mow about the situation/relationship that occurred hetween Jeff Gasaway and an
English teacher c& ljJ

Ib, Answer:
Teresa Brown had opened her home for an end of the year party (last school year) for our faculty

and staff.
I came to the party and did not drink any alcohol due to the medications I am required to take. I do
recall going out to my car at one point an~ op'ened the hatch back to retrieve myJjlllJas someone was
smoking a cigr that was setting off myE 7'1 did note seeing Jeff Gasaway and an English teacher,

& !!!:pn the siåewalk on the opposite side of the street and they appeared to be talking. I was
personally at this party for about an hour.
I don't recall exactly the time frame as to when I was told the following information but I mow it
was a matter of days from the party at Teresa's home. I overheard by some of the office staff that Jeff and

an English teacher were seen leaving a few times together and that Jeff was always close to her. I do not
recall what teacher he was with but she was referred to as an English teacher.
i also don't recall the teacher who came into my office and said that an English teacher she was
friends with had told her that the two of them(Jeff and English teacher) had been texting (and/or calling)
one another and that Jeff had touched her inappropriately. This same person who reported this to me (i
almost positive) also stated tbat the aiiegeëngliiã teacher"kind of _ SS2. n7
believe it was an Englisb teacher.. .

liked the attention" as she was either going through a divorce/separation from, but knew it was
wrong for what was going on between them. This teacher also told me that she "wanted it to stop but didn't
mow how to stop all of this between them because she needed her job and was afraid of what Jeff might do
to her.. "anäoSSible retaliation" and the fact that that the two of them would be in trouble because they are
bott@ recall encouraging this person (it was a female) to tell this English teacher to see me and
SS'2-.tll íhaI i would help her in anyway I could to make it stop. I do recall asking for the name of the English
teacher and this person would not tell me because she said she was her friend but felt that someone needed
to mow. I recall her saying that everyone is talking about it. i believe she told me that she didn't want to
get involved and/or promised this teacher she would not say anything but that this ,was not right and wanted
to tell someone. Again, she would not tell me the name of the teacher but wanted me to know that this was
going on. She stated this information as a concern and I felt that tms was something that needed to be
addressed with Mark Hinshaw since it directly involved my building principaL. All I can remember is that it
was an English teacher in the English department who came to me to report this.
I recall that not much time lapsed between the time i was told this information (above) and the
time I called Mark Hinshaw on my cell phone to ask him if we could meet up to catch up as we have done
in the past from time to time, Mark suggested that we meet on 15th street at a pub. It was on the evening
when the sirens were going off due to the tornado warnings and the pub lost power. It was on this evening
that I told Mark of the information I had leamed. I initiated the conversation and told him i needed to tell

him something that I had heard about Jeff Gasaway. I told him what i mentioned above and Mark asked if!

knew the name of the English teacher (Jeff was alleged to have this association with) to which i told him 1
did not. He told me that "...it was probably just a rumor" but to let him mow ilI heard anything new or if!

found out the name. He did ask who told me this information and i told him that I don't recall the name of
the teacher who came into my office but i felt it was further substantiated by other bits of information
offered by Officer McCann, and some staff members who I overheard talking about it which is why i felt
the need to report it to him since it involved my own building principaL. Officer McCann told me out of
concern from what she was also hearing of a possible problem at Jasper High SchooL. He again reiterated to

just let him know if 1 found out the name of the teacher.
It has only been recently (4-5 days ago), I was talking to Officer McCann who was "checking on
me" to see how I waS doing since my district email has been closed. Somewhere in our conversation, this

exact topic came up (above) and how frustrating that it was for me to be investigated for things and yet no
one looked into the possible allegations between Mr. Gasaway and an English teacher. I recall telling
Officer McCann that nothing could be done since we didn't have the name of the alleged teacher and that it
could be a rumor because no one would identify the English teacher and Officer McCann knew I had
 CJ-)~¿.IV\nQI'VI~
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already informed Mark Hinshaw when ¡ first heard about it. ¡ told her that ¡ laiow Mark well and that he
would act on it ifhe had the name ofthe teacher in question. Officer McCann then said I know who she
might be if you can tell me some names of those in the English department to help me recall her name. I
then named some of the English teacher's names and then Officer McCann then saidß 5 She
then said she was pretty sure that this is the name she has heard. ¡ did tell her that someone needs to go
forward with this information because ifl do.. .at this point ¡ believe one may think ¡ would be trying to
retaliate against Jeff. ¡ don't laiow how Officer McCann laiows or recalls. Qname but this was
the name she believes is the name of the teacher who was allegedly involved with Je . Officer McCann,
some teachers and staffhave indicated that a lot of people laiow abont the rumors and have been talking
about it since last summer. However, I have heard little if nothing new during this school year regarding
these rumors of the alleged incident at hand until last week with my discussion with Officer McCann.

2a. I was asked ifI told Tracy Ryerson that there was an investigation being done on Jeff Gasaway about a
sexual harassment issue.

2b. I am unaware of ANY investigations or even a formal complaint of sexual harassment involving
Jeff Gasaway. In essence, I only know ofmmors of an alleged reiationship between jeff Gasaway anà an
English teacherISE iil ¡ was then asked ifl "could have told" Tracy Ryerson "at a time when ¡
was upset" about-an investigation of sexual harassment investigation involving Jeff Gasaway. I was told
that this "would have been done after Tracy had learned about not getting the job at Jasper".
I do notrecall having this particular discussion with Tracy Ryerson. It is not possible for me to
share information about an investigation that did not nor does not exist to my knowledge. To reiterate, to
the best of my knowledge and the best of my recollection, there has been no investigation regarding these
allegations or any type of investigations of Jeff Gasaway and I do not recall having any discussions thereof
with Tracy Ryerson regarding this claim.
The only person I reported these allegations to was Mark Hinshaw, because it was the fight tlung
to do, despite not having the English teachers name.

No further information.

Ij

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From: Tracy Ryerson

To: Bart Rosebure; Larry Frazier
Date: 3/29/20103:37 PM
Subject: Confidentlai ,
Lariy and Ba~SçZ. '6\-\,~~tY\v.i.o

41caii exact? ~~~ ~~ ~o~ s~~~~w~:~r:~ffw~~~~~::t~:~~~~~:;;~nO¡t s~~~a~ ~J;a~~~e;:n~~~I~~~::~b;~~S¡b~: t~~t

science department chair or a guidance counselor. This statement was made after i did not get the job. at Jasper. i
thought It was to console me but I do not remember the exact conversation or time frame. It Is my belief the conversation
occurred in August around the principal meetings.

Best Regards,
Tracy L. Ryerson
Assistant Principal - Beta
Plano Senior High School .
469.752.9412

J~:J~rU

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 C .J-52 .101 t@VYIV'f\?lH;

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AFFIDAVIT

My name is Mark Hinshaw. I am 42 years old and employed by The Plano

Independent School District, Plano, Texas.

I am of lawful age, sound mind, and am personally acquainted with the information
given herein.

On or about 06-10-09, I received a phone call in the early evening hours fromG
~offered to buy me a beer, and I declined her invitation. I had already
eaten dinner, and I was in for the evening. She then asked me again 2-3 more times, and I
agreed to meet her at Fillmore Pub, 1004 E. 15th Street in Plano. This pub is
approximately one block from my residence, and I walked to the pub.

Based on my acquaintance withE Ji anticipated that she wished to complain

about work and lament over her failure to advance in PISD. I further suspected that she
would be speaking about staff discord at Jasper High School, of which there had been
recent talk. lII £l )ought me a pint of beer, and she proceeded to complain about her
work environment and the fact that she was not advancing at the rate she felt she should
be advancing. At some point during the conversation, a severe storm hit the downtown
Plano area. I monitored this situation and communicated with employees of the pub to
move the customers away from the windows.

I relocated where I was sitting withS 7 As we spoke at a comer seat of the bar,
she told me that she had heard some gossip about Jasper High School Principal Jeff
Gasaway:lg Ii told me that Mr. Gasaway had been engaged in an ongoing sexual
relationship with one of his teachers. ;ßiid not name the teacher, and I did not
ask.\l§ Ztold me that the teacher wished to end the relationship but was scared to
do soll 2Sstory was clearly third-party gossip, and I counseled her against
repeating such stories. I advised her that if an employee at the campus felt to be the
victim of sexual harassment, the employee needed to report the situation. No more was
said of the matter.

I interpreted lSi iiJrelating the story to me as partly an attempt to impress me with

what she felt was knowledge she possessed, and partly as an attempt to take a swipe at
Mr. Gasaway, with whom she was unhappy. I finis1ied mgint of beer, and I walked
home alone. I spoke to no one of the gossip thati had told me. I was at the pub
for approximately no longer than one hour.

At some point in the weeks after this, I received a phone call one night from Mr.

Gasaway. As I no longer speak with Mr. Gasaway very often and he was conspicuously
making small talk with me, I suspected he was calling to ask something of me. A short

time later he asked me in had heard anything at the administrative building regarding
him. He indicated that he had been directed to be at Patty Meyer's office in the morning,
and the insinuation was that he felt like he was in trouble. I told him that I had heard
nothing at work about him. I advised him that there was gossip being spoken concerning
 him, and I told him what I had heard. I did not advise him where I received the
information. Mr. Gasaway indicated that he was very stressed out and that he would not
be sleeping that night. I told him to call me the next day and let me know that he was o.k.
I spoke briefly with Mr. Gasaway the next day. He advised me that he had been called in
to Ms. Myers' office over a misunderstanding and that he was o.k.

I have received no credible, direct, or official reports of any alleged sexual harassment or
sexual misconduct perpetrated by Principal Jeff Gasaway on a Jasper High School
employee, and I have not been asked to investigate any of the same.

I hereby affirm that the information given herein is true and correct to the best of
my knowledge.

gk~
. MarkiÍinshaw
0"5 ,2. 9' /0
Date signed

â(lll;ed and of
day f'l\.firCk--
subscribl\d before me,2010.
by the said Mp.r K ill ri..W iVon this, the

~lL
~~
.' !6 GLENDA SMrrHEART
~ My Commission Expires
March 16, 2013

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From:
To:
Q: : b
Bart Rosebure
Date: 3/31/2010 9:51 AM
Subject: Conversation from Monday

Hello Mr. Rosebure,

I have thought very thoroughly about our conversation on Monday, and I am very much connicted over the correct course
of action. For me, this chapter in my life ciosed last June, I haven't been bothered personally since then, and I've moved
on. Without our conversationi I would not have ever thought to pursue this matter any furtheri and I would prefer not to
pursue any further investigation.

Please let me know if you need anything more from me,

(;'kYOU! !J
Date: March 23, 2010

From: Randall Chaddick

Re: Meeting ,)n 3/22/10

I was asked t,) write a brief synopsis of the discussion I had on Monday 3/22/10 with Bart

Rosebure anc Larry Frazier. First I would like to apologize for not remembering all
details ofthe event in question. The incident they were inquiring about happened in June
of 2009whicli was approximately nine months ago. To my best recollection this event
was like so rr.any others where co-workers and other administrators visit with each other
about an issu'~ then they move forward. Always something waiting to be dealt with as an

administrator. The incident in question was to me one of those incidents, details of the
event soon forgotten. I might have been able to remember more details if the situation
would have been questioned sooner. I believe a co-worker, Brenda Smith inquired from
me if we, the selection committee, had made a decision about the selection of an

Assistant Principal position that was open at Jasper High SchooL. She was not a
candidate but was interested since she would be working with this person in a
professional c:apacity. I do not remember if this was in person or on the phone. I seem to
recall we discussed that the committee had interviewed three candidates but had not made
a decision and was waiting to see if other candidates were out there. At no time would it
have been mentioned that a candidate had been selected since it was clear when the
committee adjourned that we needed to consider other candidates if they were available.
At this time I know of no other conversations with Brenda or others about this issue and I
do not recall:he committee discussing interviewing other candidates prior to leaving for
the summer.

Randall Chac.dick