The Columbus City Schools Board of Education was critical of Superintendent Angela Chapman in her year-end review — highlighting what board members perceive as communication issues.
Board comments on the review said Chapman has had "difficulty articulating the vision of the district" to the community, stakeholders and the board itself.
"The district does not implement effective communications strategies for major initiatives — there is a lot of noise, but little through line for district messaging," the board wrote.
The board noted that Chapman has developed strong relationships with stakeholders, the community and district unions, but went on to say that she doesn't collaborate well with district leaders and the board itself.
The board also claimed that Chapman did not effectively manage the district's grant money, leaving some of it unspent at the end of last fiscal year.
"The superintendent demonstrates partial effectiveness across standards but significant areas for improvements remain," the board wrote in its final comments. "The board recognizes that the superintendent is a 'newer' superintendent...the board expects that the superintendent will take the necessary steps to strengthen her performance..."
In her comments, Chapman noted that she communicated with the board and community through meetings, newsletters, videos, media interviews and more.
She said she worked with the district treasurer and board leadership to testify at the Ohio Statehouse in the spring to bring attention to the impacts of state budget decisions on Columbus City Schools. Chapman listed other accomplishments like recruiting quality staff and working with the Columbus Education Association to create a pathway for substitute teachers to become full-time teachers.
The board acknowledged Chapman's success in recruitment and retention, but expressed concern about high turnover in the district's administration.
The board also gave positive feedback that Chapman "organized and maintained the district calendar to maximize learning."
Chapman could not immediately be reached for comment.
District spokesman Michael Brown said that Chapman believes in continuous improvement for herself and all staff across the district, "which is why we use a system of reviews for everyone on our CCS team. I'm sure she will take a careful look at the board's recommendations after the holiday break."
The performance review is signed by outgoing board president Michael Cole, whose term ended on Wednesday.
In a statement to WOSU, Cole said moving the district's efforts from good to great, "requires everyone within the sphere of influence on children — from home to the school house — to responsibly account for any shortcomings, recognize corrections, plan the work to be great, and do great work..."
Cole said Chapman's evaluation "accurately reflects" the board's sentiments based on her performance.
"It is important for all to understand the complexities of managing the day-to-day workings of staff, students and communities in modern public education for Ohio's largest school district," Cole told WOSU. "The board and administration that includes the superintendent, treasurer and internal auditor have accomplished good work together."
Cole added that he is grateful to have served the students, families and staff of Columbus City Schools.
