Current Status
The board has formally addressed the resignation of DEI Coordinator Mohammed Albehadli, which was prompted by a racist incident. The district has reaffirmed its commitment to DEI work and is facing public calls for comprehensive action to address systemic inequities and improve staff diversity.
Overview
- On February 12, 2024, the board formally addressed the resignation, expressing sadness and anger while hearing public comment urging comprehensive action on systemic inequities and staff diversity.
- On January 22, 2024, the Superintendent announced that DEI Director Mohammad Albehadli had resigned due to a vile, threatening email and pledged that the district's DEI work would continue with urgency.
Perspectives
Board
- Members expressed sadness and anger over the racist incident that led to the resignation.
- The board reaffirmed its commitment to DEI work.
Administration
- Administrators urged the board to take thoughtful, comprehensive action to address systemic inequities and improve staff retention.
- Superintendent Matheney praised Mr. Albehadli's service and pledged that the district's DEI work will continue with urgency.
Citizens
- Public commenters urged the board to take comprehensive action, improve recruitment of diverse staff, and engage with the city on housing issues.
- A student representative spoke about the personal impact of losing Mr. Albehadli as a role model.
- Citizens expressed sadness over the departure and requested a greater focus on increasing staff diversity.
Key Resolutions & Votes
| Date | Motion | Result |
|---|---|---|
| February 12, 2024 | to enter into Executive Session pursuant to MRSA§405(6)(A) to discuss an employee matter | Passed |
Meeting History
February 12, 2024
February 12, 2024 — School Board Meeting — SPSD
DEI Coordinator Resignation
The board formally addressed the resignation of DEI Coordinator Mohammed Albehadli. Members expressed sadness and anger over the racist incident that led to his departure, reaffirmed their commitment to DEI work, and heard from a student representative about the personal impact of his loss as a role model.
Public Comment on Equity Issues
Public comment focused heavily on the committee's report and the DEI coordinator's resignation. Citizens and administrators urged the board to take thoughtful, comprehensive action to address systemic inequities, improve the recruitment and retention of diverse staff, and engage with the city on related housing issues.
January 22, 2024
January 22, 2024 — School Board Meeting — SPSD
Tribute to Mohammad Albehadli
Superintendent Matheney began the meeting by honoring Mohammad Albehadli, the former Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, who recently resigned due to a vile, threatening email. Matheney praised his service and impact, and pledged that the district's DEI work will continue with urgency.
Public Comment
Citizens praised the "You Belong Here" video and the district's diversity, expressing sadness over Mohammad Albehadli's departure. Commenters also requested more disaggregated data on student performance by race and socioeconomic status, and a greater focus on increasing staff diversity.