Business Insider August 25 2022 public records request
| Submitted | Aug. 25, 2022 |
| Est. Completion | July 31, 2023 |
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Communications
From: Insider Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the Tennessee Public Records Act, I hereby request the following records:
-All separation agreements and settlements reached with current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017 through the day this request is fulfilled.
-All public records relating to any and all claims of misconduct against current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017 through the day this request is fulfilled. Such public records should include, but not be limited to, all complaints; allegations; claims; investigatory reports; analyses; summaries; memoranda and/or notes; interview recordings; transcripts and/or notes; reviews; emails, text or other electronic messages, voicemails, and/or other communications and/or correspondence; determinations; decisions; orders; resignation letters; employment reclassification documents; offers in compromise and/or settlement agreements; termination and/or transfer papers; letters of reproval and/or other disciplinary actions, whether imposed or not; referrals to law enforcement, administrative, and/or licensing agencies, departments, and/or bodies; appeals; court filings and/or rulings; and all similar materials notwithstanding the use of other terminology, nomenclature, or categorization by this or other involved public agencies.
To further clarify this request, the scope of the misconduct at issue arises from, relates to, and/or is a consequence of sexual behavior and/or activities with district students, whether currently or previously enrolled, and notwithstanding whether any such behavior and/or activities were proven to have occurred or not. The construction of this request should be understood to be liberal and expansive, such that all public records which may be remotely responsive should be produced in full and may only be withheld and/or redacted only as required by law.
I would like these records in the electronic format that they are stored in, transmitted via email or other digital method; please refrain from sending paper copies of the records.
Rather than provide all responsive records at once, I ask that you provide copies of records on a rolling basis, as they become available.
If you determine that any of the information qualifies for an exemption from disclosure, I ask you to note whether the exemption is discretionary, and if so whether it is necessary in this case to exercise your discretion to withhold the information. In any event, please provide a signed notification citing the legal authorities on which you rely if you determine that any of the information is exempt and will not be disclosed.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 7 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
Kent Hoover, a citizen of Tennessee, in coordination with Insider Staff.
From:
Submission Confirmation
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<p><span style="color:#0000CD;"><em><strong>Dear Requester, </strong></em></span></p>
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<p><span style="color:#0000CD;"><strong><em>This message is intended to acknowledge Shelby County Schools’ receipt of your recently submitted public records request, which is reflected below. </em></strong></span></p>
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<p><span style="color:#0000CD;"><strong><em>Your Open Records Request has been received; however, due to COVID-19, please expect response time to your request to be slower than normal.</em></strong></span></p>
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<p><span style="color:#0000CD;"><strong><em>SCS appreciates your patience as it navigates continuity of operations in light of COVID-19.</em></strong></span></p>
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<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="color:#0000CD;"><em><strong>Due to the upcoming Christmas Break, Shelby County Schools will respond to all requests submitted between December 19 - 22, 2020, on January 4, 2021. Open Records Requests will not be accepted December 23, 2020, - January 3, 2021. The Open Records Request Portal will reopen on January 4, 2021.</strong></em></span></p>
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<p><em><span style="color:#0000CD;"><strong><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: 100%; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">We apologize for any inconvenience.</span></strong></span></em></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><em><span style="color:#0000CD;"><strong>Thank you!</strong></span></em></p>
<p><em><span style="color:#0000CD;"><strong>Public Records Request Coordinator</strong></span></em></p>
<p><em><span style="color:#0000CD;"><strong>Shelby County Schools</strong></span></em></p>
Form name
Open Records Requests
Date submitted
Aug 31, 2022, 01:10PM EDT
Submission Details: *Receipt*
0001600
*Date Picker*
August 31, 2022 01:09 PM
*First Name*
Kent
*Last Name*
Hoover
*Email Address*
requests@muckrock.com
*Are you requesting student transcripts, diplomas, cumulative records and/or other student records?*
No
*Please provide a brief description of your open records request identifying the SPECIFIC records requested.*
To Whom It May Concern:
Pursuant to the Tennessee Public Records Act, I hereby request the following records:
-All separation agreements and settlements reached with current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017 through the day this request is fulfilled.
-All public records relating to any and all claims of misconduct against current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017 through the day this request is fulfilled. Such public records should include, but not be limited to, all complaints; allegations; claims; investigatory reports; analyses; summaries; memoranda and/or notes; interview recordings; transcripts and/or notes; reviews; emails, text or other electronic messages, voicemails, and/or other communications and/or correspondence; determinations; decisions; orders; resignation letters; employment reclassification documents; offers in compromise and/or settlement agreements; termination and/or transfer papers; letters of reproval and/or other disciplinary actions, whether imposed or not; referrals to law enforcement, administrative, and/or licensing agencies, departments, and/or bodies; appeals; court filings and/or rulings; and all similar materials notwithstanding the use of other terminology, nomenclature, or categorization by this or other involved public agencies.
To further clarify this request, the scope of the misconduct at issue arises from, relates to, and/or is a consequence of sexual behavior and/or activities with district students, whether currently or previously enrolled, and notwithstanding whether any such behavior and/or activities were proven to have occurred or not. The construction of this request should be understood to be liberal and expansive, such that all public records which may be remotely responsive should be produced in full and may only be withheld and/or redacted only as required by law.
I would like these records in the electronic format that they are stored in, transmitted via email or other digital method; please refrain from sending paper copies of the records.
Rather than provide all responsive records at once, I ask that you provide copies of records on a rolling basis, as they become available.
If you determine that any of the information qualifies for an exemption from disclosure, I ask you to note whether the exemption is discretionary, and if so whether it is necessary in this case to exercise your discretion to withhold the information. In any event, please provide a signed notification citing the legal authorities on which you rely if you determine that any of the information is exempt and will not be disclosed.
The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes.
In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
Thank you in advance for your anticipated cooperation in this matter. I look forward to receiving your response to this request within 7 business days, as the statute requires.
Sincerely,
Kent Hoover, a citizen of Tennessee, in coordination with Insider Staff.
*Is this a request for inspection or copying of the requested record(s)?*
Copying
*Proof of Tennessee citizenship by presentation of a valid Tennessee driver’s license (or alternative acceptable form of valid ID) is required as a condition to inspect or receive copies of public records. Please upload that information here.*
kenthooverid.jpg
View the submission and any attachments by following the link below and using this unique access code: ba6In1k1jI88gayk
Shelby County Schools
From: Shelby County Schools
Good afternoon Mr. Hoover. We are in receipt of your open records request and it is being processed. Due to the high volume of requests, and depending on the specifics to your request, we expect your request to be completed with results (if applicable) by October 31, 2022.
We apologize for any inconvenience. Thank you for your cooperation and patience in this matter. Have a great day!
Open Records Requests Response Team
[Logo Description automatically generated]
Together, we MUST BELIEVE.
Together, we WILL ACHIEVE.
Together, we are REIMAGINING 901.
Shelby County Board of Education offers educational and employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, creed, age, disability, national origin, or genetic information.
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTE: This E-mail (including any attachments) may be Attorney-Client Privileged and is Confidential information covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act 18 U.S.C. Sections 2510-2521 and any other applicable law, and is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named herein. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible to deliver it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any retention, dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. Although this E-mail and any attachments are believed to be free of any virus or other defect that might affect any computer system into which it is received and opened, it is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure that it is virus-free and no responsibility is accepted by Shelby County Board of Education, or the author hereof in any way from its use. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return E-mail.
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From: Insider Staff
In an effort to assist you in processing this request, records regarding “activities with district students” should be interpreted to mean “Sexual Harassment,” “Unwelcome Conduct,” “Hostile Educational Environment,” and/or “Sexual Violence,” involving one or more former or current students.
With respect to the separation and settlement agreements I've requested, please note that I am requesting all such agreements, as indicated in my request, regardless of the underlying reason/rationale for departure.
From: Shelby County Schools
Good morning Mr. Hoover. In response to your open records request received on August 31, 2022 requesting:
To Whom It May Concern: Pursuant to the Tennessee Public Records Act, I hereby request the following records: -All separation agreements and settlements reached with current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017 through the day this request is fulfilled. -All public records relating to any and all claims of misconduct against current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017 through the day this request is fulfilled. Such public records should include, but not be limited to, all complaints; allegations; claims; investigatory reports; analyses; summaries; memoranda and/or notes; interview recordings; transcripts and/or notes; reviews; emails, text or other electronic messages, voicemails, and/or other communications and/or correspondence; determinations; decisions; orders; resignation letters; employment reclassification documents; offers in compromise and/or settlement agreements; termination and/or transfer papers; letters of reproval and/or other disciplinary actions, whether imposed or not; referrals to law enforcement, administrative, and/or licensing agencies, departments, and/or bodies; appeals; court filings and/or rulings; and all similar materials notwithstanding the use of other terminology, nomenclature, or categorization by this or other involved public agencies. To further clarify this request, the scope of the misconduct at issue arises from, relates to, and/or is a consequence of sexual behavior and/or activities with district students, whether currently or previously enrolled, and notwithstanding whether any such behavior and/or activities were proven to have occurred or not. The construction of this request should be understood to be liberal and expansive, such that all public records which may be remotely responsive should be produced in full and may only be withheld and/or redacted only as required by law. I would like these records in the electronic format that they are stored in, transmitted via email or other digital method; please refrain from sending paper copies of the records. Rather than provide all responsive records at once, I ask that you provide copies of records on a rolling basis, as they become available. If you determine that any of the information qualifies for an exemption from disclosure, I ask you to note whether the exemption is discretionary, and if so whether it is necessary in this case to exercise your discretion to withhold the information. In any event, please provide a signed notification citing the legal authorities on which you rely if you determine that any of the information is exempt and will not be disclosed. The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes. In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
It is not practicable for the records you have requested to be made promptly available for inspection and/or copying because:
1. It has not yet been determined that records responsive to your request exist OR
2. The office is still in the process of retrieving, reviewing, and/or redacting the requested records.
The time reasonably necessary to produce the record(s) or information and/or to make a determination of a proper response to your request is November 30, 2022.
We apologize for the delay. Thank you for your patience and cooperation in this matter.
Sincerely,
[cid:image001.png@01D8E794.FCFF5E80]
Open Records Requests Response Team
Together, we MUST BELIEVE.
Together, we WILL ACHIEVE.
Together, we are REIMAGINING 901.
Shelby County Board of Education offers educational and employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, creed, age, disability, national origin, or genetic information.
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTE: This E-mail (including any attachments) may be Attorney-Client Privileged and is Confidential information covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act 18 U.S.C. Sections 2510-2521 and any other applicable law, and is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named herein. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible to deliver it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any retention, dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. Although this E-mail and any attachments are believed to be free of any virus or other defect that might affect any computer system into which it is received and opened, it is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure that it is virus-free and no responsibility is accepted by Shelby County Board of Education, or the author hereof in any way from its use. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return E-mail.
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image001
From: Insider Staff
Hello, I still haven't received any responsive records for this request. I'm hopeful that we can resolve this issue without seeking a judicial remedy through the courts. Can you please advise?
From: Shelby County Schools
Good afternoon Mr. Hoover and thank you for your email. As reflected in your email below, an email was sent to you on October 24, 2022 informing you that we hope to respond to your request by November 30, 2022.
Thank you for your cooperation in this matter and have a good day!
From: Shelby County Schools
Good morning Mr. Hoover. In response to your open records request received on August 31, 2022 requesting the following:
To Whom It May Concern: Pursuant to the Tennessee Public Records Act, I hereby request the following records: -All separation agreements and settlements reached with current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017 through the day this request is fulfilled. -All public records relating to any and all claims of misconduct against current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017 through the day this request is fulfilled. Such public records should include, but not be limited to, all complaints; allegations; claims; investigatory reports; analyses; summaries; memoranda and/or notes; interview recordings; transcripts and/or notes; reviews; emails, text or other electronic messages, voicemails, and/or other communications and/or correspondence; determinations; decisions; orders; resignation letters; employment reclassification documents; offers in compromise and/or settlement agreements; termination and/or transfer papers; letters of reproval and/or other disciplinary actions, whether imposed or not; referrals to law enforcement, administrative, and/or licensing agencies, departments, and/or bodies; appeals; court filings and/or rulings; and all similar materials notwithstanding the use of other terminology, nomenclature, or categorization by this or other involved public agencies. To further clarify this request, the scope of the misconduct at issue arises from, relates to, and/or is a consequence of sexual behavior and/or activities with district students, whether currently or previously enrolled, and notwithstanding whether any such behavior and/or activities were proven to have occurred or not. The construction of this request should be understood to be liberal and expansive, such that all public records which may be remotely responsive should be produced in full and may only be withheld and/or redacted only as required by law. I would like these records in the electronic format that they are stored in, transmitted via email or other digital method; please refrain from sending paper copies of the records. Rather than provide all responsive records at once, I ask that you provide copies of records on a rolling basis, as they become available. If you determine that any of the information qualifies for an exemption from disclosure, I ask you to note whether the exemption is discretionary, and if so whether it is necessary in this case to exercise your discretion to withhold the information. In any event, please provide a signed notification citing the legal authorities on which you rely if you determine that any of the information is exempt and will not be disclosed. The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes. In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
It is not practicable for the records you have requested to be made promptly available for inspection and/or copying because:
1. It has not yet been determined that records responsive to your request exist OR
2. The office is still in the process of retrieving, reviewing, and/or redacting the requested records.
The time reasonably necessary to produce the record(s) or information and/or to make a determination of a proper response to your request is January 31, 2023.
We apologize for the delay. Thank you for your patience and cooperation in this matter.
Sincerely,
Open Records Requests Response Team
[Logo Description automatically generated]
Together, we MUST BELIEVE.
Together, we WILL ACHIEVE.
Together, we are REIMAGINING 901.
Shelby County Board of Education offers educational and employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, creed, age, disability, national origin, or genetic information.
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTE: This E-mail (including any attachments) may be Attorney-Client Privileged and is Confidential information covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act 18 U.S.C. Sections 2510-2521 and any other applicable law, and is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named herein. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible to deliver it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any retention, dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. Although this E-mail and any attachments are believed to be free of any virus or other defect that might affect any computer system into which it is received and opened, it is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure that it is virus-free and no responsibility is accepted by Shelby County Board of Education, or the author hereof in any way from its use. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return E-mail.
-
image001
From: Shelby County Schools
Good afternoon Mr. Hoover. In response to your open records request received on August 31, 2022 requesting the following:
To Whom It May Concern: Pursuant to the Tennessee Public Records Act, I hereby request the following records: -All separation agreements and settlements reached with current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017 through the day this request is fulfilled. -All public records relating to any and all claims of misconduct against current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017 through the day this request is fulfilled. Such public records should include, but not be limited to, all complaints; allegations; claims; investigatory reports; analyses; summaries; memoranda and/or notes; interview recordings; transcripts and/or notes; reviews; emails, text or other electronic messages, voicemails, and/or other communications and/or correspondence; determinations; decisions; orders; resignation letters; employment reclassification documents; offers in compromise and/or settlement agreements; termination and/or transfer papers; letters of reproval and/or other disciplinary actions, whether imposed or not; referrals to law enforcement, administrative, and/or licensing agencies, departments, and/or bodies; appeals; court filings and/or rulings; and all similar materials notwithstanding the use of other terminology, nomenclature, or categorization by this or other involved public agencies. To further clarify this request, the scope of the misconduct at issue arises from, relates to, and/or is a consequence of sexual behavior and/or activities with district students, whether currently or previously enrolled, and notwithstanding whether any such behavior and/or activities were proven to have occurred or not. The construction of this request should be understood to be liberal and expansive, such that all public records which may be remotely responsive should be produced in full and may only be withheld and/or redacted only as required by law. I would like these records in the electronic format that they are stored in, transmitted via email or other digital method; please refrain from sending paper copies of the records. Rather than provide all responsive records at once, I ask that you provide copies of records on a rolling basis, as they become available. If you determine that any of the information qualifies for an exemption from disclosure, I ask you to note whether the exemption is discretionary, and if so whether it is necessary in this case to exercise your discretion to withhold the information. In any event, please provide a signed notification citing the legal authorities on which you rely if you determine that any of the information is exempt and will not be disclosed. The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes. In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
It is not practicable for the records you have requested to be made promptly available for inspection and/or copying because:
1. It has not yet been determined that records responsive to your request exist OR
2. The office is still in the process of retrieving, reviewing, and/or redacting the requested records.
The time reasonably necessary to produce the record(s) or information and/or to make a determination of a proper response to your request is March 31, 2023.
We apologize for the delay. Thank you for your patience and cooperation in this matter.
Sincerely,
Open Records Requests Response Team
[Logo Description automatically generated]
Together, we MUST BELIEVE.
Together, we WILL ACHIEVE.
Together, we are REIMAGINING 901.
Shelby County Board of Education offers educational and employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, creed, age, disability, national origin, or genetic information.
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTE: This E-mail (including any attachments) may be Attorney-Client Privileged and is Confidential information covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act 18 U.S.C. Sections 2510-2521 and any other applicable law, and is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named herein. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible to deliver it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any retention, dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. Although this E-mail and any attachments are believed to be free of any virus or other defect that might affect any computer system into which it is received and opened, it is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure that it is virus-free and no responsibility is accepted by Shelby County Board of Education, or the author hereof in any way from its use. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return E-mail.
-
image001
From: Shelby County Schools
Good morning Mr. Hoover. In response to your open records request received on August 31, 2022 requesting the following:
To Whom It May Concern: Pursuant to the Tennessee Public Records Act, I hereby request the following records: -All separation agreements and settlements reached with current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017 through the day this request is fulfilled. -All public records relating to any and all claims of misconduct against current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017 through the day this request is fulfilled. Such public records should include, but not be limited to, all complaints; allegations; claims; investigatory reports; analyses; summaries; memoranda and/or notes; interview recordings; transcripts and/or notes; reviews; emails, text or other electronic messages, voicemails, and/or other communications and/or correspondence; determinations; decisions; orders; resignation letters; employment reclassification documents; offers in compromise and/or settlement agreements; termination and/or transfer papers; letters of reproval and/or other disciplinary actions, whether imposed or not; referrals to law enforcement, administrative, and/or licensing agencies, departments, and/or bodies; appeals; court filings and/or rulings; and all similar materials notwithstanding the use of other terminology, nomenclature, or categorization by this or other involved public agencies. To further clarify this request, the scope of the misconduct at issue arises from, relates to, and/or is a consequence of sexual behavior and/or activities with district students, whether currently or previously enrolled, and notwithstanding whether any such behavior and/or activities were proven to have occurred or not. The construction of this request should be understood to be liberal and expansive, such that all public records which may be remotely responsive should be produced in full and may only be withheld and/or redacted only as required by law. I would like these records in the electronic format that they are stored in, transmitted via email or other digital method; please refrain from sending paper copies of the records. Rather than provide all responsive records at once, I ask that you provide copies of records on a rolling basis, as they become available. If you determine that any of the information qualifies for an exemption from disclosure, I ask you to note whether the exemption is discretionary, and if so whether it is necessary in this case to exercise your discretion to withhold the information. In any event, please provide a signed notification citing the legal authorities on which you rely if you determine that any of the information is exempt and will not be disclosed. The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes. In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
It is not practicable for the records you have requested to be made promptly available for inspection and/or copying because:
1. It has not yet been determined that records responsive to your request exist OR
2. The office is still in the process of retrieving, reviewing, and/or redacting the requested records.
The time reasonably necessary to produce the record(s) or information and/or to make a determination of a proper response to your request is April 28, 2023.
We apologize for the delay. Thank you for your patience and cooperation in this matter.
Sincerely,
Open Records Requests Response Team
[Logo Description automatically generated]
Together, we MUST BELIEVE.
Together, we WILL ACHIEVE.
Together, we are REIMAGINING 901.
Shelby County Board of Education offers educational and employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, creed, age, disability, national origin, or genetic information.
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTE: This E-mail (including any attachments) may be Attorney-Client Privileged and is Confidential information covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act 18 U.S.C. Sections 2510-2521 and any other applicable law, and is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named herein. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible to deliver it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any retention, dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. Although this E-mail and any attachments are believed to be free of any virus or other defect that might affect any computer system into which it is received and opened, it is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure that it is virus-free and no responsibility is accepted by Shelby County Board of Education, or the author hereof in any way from its use. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return E-mail.
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image001
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following Tennessee Public Records Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on Aug. 25, 2022. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on March 31, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Muckrock Staff
To Whom It May Concern:
I'm following up on the following Tennessee Public Records Act request, copied below, and originally submitted on Aug. 25, 2022. You had previously indicated that it would be completed on March 31, 2023. I wanted to check on the status of my request, and to see if there was a new estimated completion date.
Thanks for your help, and let me know if further clarification is needed.
From: Shelby County Schools
Good morning Mr. Hoover. In response to your open records request received on August 31, 2022, requesting the following:
To Whom It May Concern: Pursuant to the Tennessee Public Records Act, I hereby request the following records: -All separation agreements and settlements reached with current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017 through the day this request is fulfilled. -All public records relating to any and all claims of misconduct against current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017 through the day this request is fulfilled. Such public records should include, but not be limited to, all complaints; allegations; claims; investigatory reports; analyses; summaries; memoranda and/or notes; interview recordings; transcripts and/or notes; reviews; emails, text or other electronic messages, voicemails, and/or other communications and/or correspondence; determinations; decisions; orders; resignation letters; employment reclassification documents; offers in compromise and/or settlement agreements; termination and/or transfer papers; letters of reproval and/or other disciplinary actions, whether imposed or not; referrals to law enforcement, administrative, and/or licensing agencies, departments, and/or bodies; appeals; court filings and/or rulings; and all similar materials notwithstanding the use of other terminology, nomenclature, or categorization by this or other involved public agencies. To further clarify this request, the scope of the misconduct at issue arises from, relates to, and/or is a consequence of sexual behavior and/or activities with district students, whether currently or previously enrolled, and notwithstanding whether any such behavior and/or activities were proven to have occurred or not. The construction of this request should be understood to be liberal and expansive, such that all public records which may be remotely responsive should be produced in full and may only be withheld and/or redacted only as required by law. I would like these records in the electronic format that they are stored in, transmitted via email or other digital method; please refrain from sending paper copies of the records. Rather than provide all responsive records at once, I ask that you provide copies of records on a rolling basis, as they become available. If you determine that any of the information qualifies for an exemption from disclosure, I ask you to note whether the exemption is discretionary, and if so whether it is necessary in this case to exercise your discretion to withhold the information. In any event, please provide a signed notification citing the legal authorities on which you rely if you determine that any of the information is exempt and will not be disclosed. The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes. In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
It is not practicable for the records you have requested to be made promptly available for inspection and/or copying because:
1. It has not yet been determined that records responsive to your request exist OR
2. The office is still in the process of retrieving, reviewing, and/or redacting the requested records.
The time reasonably necessary to produce the record(s) or information and/or to make a determination of a proper response to your request is June 30, 2023.
We apologize for the delay. Thank you for your patience and cooperation in this matter.
Sincerely,
Open Records Requests Response Team
[Logo Description automatically generated]
Together, we MUST BELIEVE.
Together, we WILL ACHIEVE.
Together, we are REIMAGINING 901.
Shelby County Board of Education offers educational and employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, creed, age, disability, national origin, or genetic information.
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTE: This E-mail (including any attachments) may be Attorney-Client Privileged and is Confidential information covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act 18 U.S.C. Sections 2510-2521 and any other applicable law, and is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named herein. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible to deliver it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any retention, dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. Although this E-mail and any attachments are believed to be free of any virus or other defect that might affect any computer system into which it is received and opened, it is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure that it is virus-free and no responsibility is accepted by Shelby County Board of Education, or the author hereof in any way from its use. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return E-mail.
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From: Insider Staff
Thank you for the update. But I'm afraid I'm confused. Roughly how many teachers in your district have been accused of sexual misconduct or abuse over the past five years?
If the number is so great that your HR cannot estimate it, perhaps I need to shift the focus of my reporting.
From: Shelby County Schools
Good morning Mr. Hoover and thank you for your email. When you say “Roughly how many teachers in your district have been accused of sexual misconduct or abuse over the past five years? “ Are you referring to sexual misconduct/abuse as to teacher to teacher or teacher to student or both?
Please advise. Thank you for your cooperation and have a great day.
[cid:image001.png@01D97C23.D2FCC220]
Stephanie Williford, Legal Assistant
The Office of General Counsel
160 S. Hollywood St., Memphis, TN 38112
Direct Phone: 901-416-0494 | Main: 901-416-6370
Together, we MUST BELIEVE.
Together, we WILL ACHIEVE.
Together, we are REIMAGINING 901
L.E.G.A.L. – Lead, Encourage, Guide, Accountability, Learn!
Shelby County Board of Education offers educational and employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, creed, age, disability, national origin, or genetic information.
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTE: This E-mail (including any attachments) may be Attorney-Client Privileged and is Confidential information covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act 18 U.S.C. Sections 2510-2521 and any other applicable law, and is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named herein. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible to deliver it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any retention, dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. Although this E-mail and any attachments are believed to be free of any virus or other defect that might affect any computer system into which it is received and opened, it is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure that it is virus-free and no responsibility is accepted by Shelby County Board of Education, or the author hereof in any way from its use. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return E-mail.
From: Insider Staff
As in, teacher-on-student. Did you receive and review a copy of my actual request?
From: Shelby County Schools
Good afternoon Mr. Hoover. With regard to the number of teacher on student sexual misconduct incidents, will an actual report of that data satisfy your request or are you also requesting the personnel files as well? Please advise at your earliest convenience. Thanks!
[cid:image001.png@01D98F07.405510C0]
Stephanie Williford, Legal Assistant
The Office of General Counsel
160 S. Hollywood St., Memphis, TN 38112
Direct Phone: 901-416-0494 | Main: 901-416-6370
Together, we MUST BELIEVE.
Together, we WILL ACHIEVE.
Together, we are REIMAGINING 901
L.E.G.A.L. – Lead, Encourage, Guide, Accountability, Learn!
Shelby County Board of Education offers educational and employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, creed, age, disability, national origin, or genetic information.
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTE: This E-mail (including any attachments) may be Attorney-Client Privileged and is Confidential information covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act 18 U.S.C. Sections 2510-2521 and any other applicable law, and is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named herein. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible to deliver it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any retention, dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. Although this E-mail and any attachments are believed to be free of any virus or other defect that might affect any computer system into which it is received and opened, it is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure that it is virus-free and no responsibility is accepted by Shelby County Board of Education, or the author hereof in any way from its use. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return E-mail.
From: Shelby County Schools
Good afternoon Mr. Hoover. I hope all is well. For us to determine how to proceed with your request, could you please respond to the email highlighted below at your earliest convenience. Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.
From: Shelby County Schools
Good morning Mr. Hoover. In response to your open records request received on August 31, 2022, requesting the following:
To Whom It May Concern: Pursuant to the Tennessee Public Records Act, I hereby request the following records: -All separation agreements and settlements reached with current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017 through the day this request is fulfilled. -All public records relating to any and all claims of misconduct against current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017 through the day this request is fulfilled. Such public records should include, but not be limited to, all complaints; allegations; claims; investigatory reports; analyses; summaries; memoranda and/or notes; interview recordings; transcripts and/or notes; reviews; emails, text or other electronic messages, voicemails, and/or other communications and/or correspondence; determinations; decisions; orders; resignation letters; employment reclassification documents; offers in compromise and/or settlement agreements; termination and/or transfer papers; letters of reproval and/or other disciplinary actions, whether imposed or not; referrals to law enforcement, administrative, and/or licensing agencies, departments, and/or bodies; appeals; court filings and/or rulings; and all similar materials notwithstanding the use of other terminology, nomenclature, or categorization by this or other involved public agencies. To further clarify this request, the scope of the misconduct at issue arises from, relates to, and/or is a consequence of sexual behavior and/or activities with district students, whether currently or previously enrolled, and notwithstanding whether any such behavior and/or activities were proven to have occurred or not. The construction of this request should be understood to be liberal and expansive, such that all public records which may be remotely responsive should be produced in full and may only be withheld and/or redacted only as required by law. I would like these records in the electronic format that they are stored in, transmitted via email or other digital method; please refrain from sending paper copies of the records. Rather than provide all responsive records at once, I ask that you provide copies of records on a rolling basis, as they become available. If you determine that any of the information qualifies for an exemption from disclosure, I ask you to note whether the exemption is discretionary, and if so whether it is necessary in this case to exercise your discretion to withhold the information. In any event, please provide a signed notification citing the legal authorities on which you rely if you determine that any of the information is exempt and will not be disclosed. The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes. In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
It is not practicable for the records you have requested to be made promptly available for inspection and/or copying because:
1. It has not yet been determined that records responsive to your request exist OR
2. The office is still in the process of retrieving, reviewing, and/or redacting the requested records.
The time reasonably necessary to produce the record(s) or information and/or to make a determination of a proper response to your request is July 31, 2023.
We apologize for the delay. Thank you for your patience and cooperation in this matter.
Sincerely,
Open Records Requests Response Team
[Logo Description automatically generated]
Together, we MUST BELIEVE.
Together, we WILL ACHIEVE.
Together, we are REIMAGINING 901.
Shelby County Board of Education offers educational and employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, creed, age, disability, national origin, or genetic information.
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTE: This E-mail (including any attachments) may be Attorney-Client Privileged and is Confidential information covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act 18 U.S.C. Sections 2510-2521 and any other applicable law, and is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named herein. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible to deliver it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any retention, dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. Although this E-mail and any attachments are believed to be free of any virus or other defect that might affect any computer system into which it is received and opened, it is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure that it is virus-free and no responsibility is accepted by Shelby County Board of Education, or the author hereof in any way from its use. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return E-mail.
-
image001
From: Shelby County Schools
Good afternoon Mr. Hoover. In response to your open records request received on August 31, 2022, requesting the following:
To Whom It May Concern: Pursuant to the Tennessee Public Records Act, I hereby request the following records: -All separation agreements and settlements reached with current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017, through the day this request is fulfilled. -All public records relating to any and all claims of misconduct against current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017, through the day this request is fulfilled. Such public records should include, but not be limited to, all complaints; allegations; claims; investigatory reports; analyses; summaries; memoranda and/or notes; interview recordings; transcripts and/or notes; reviews; emails, text or other electronic messages, voicemails, and/or other communications and/or correspondence; determinations; decisions; orders; resignation letters; employment reclassification documents; offers in compromise and/or settlement agreements; termination and/or transfer papers; letters of reproval and/or other disciplinary actions, whether imposed or not; referrals to law enforcement, administrative, and/or licensing agencies, departments, and/or bodies; appeals; court filings and/or rulings; and all similar materials notwithstanding the use of other terminology, nomenclature, or categorization by this or other involved public agencies. To further clarify this request, the scope of the misconduct at issue arises from, relates to, and/or is a consequence of sexual behavior and/or activities with district students, whether currently or previously enrolled, and notwithstanding whether any such behavior and/or activities were proven to have occurred or not. The construction of this request should be understood to be liberal and expansive, such that all public records which may be remotely responsive should be produced in full and may only be withheld and/or redacted only as required by law. I would like these records in the electronic format that they are stored in, transmitted via email or other digital method; please refrain from sending paper copies of the records. Rather than provide all responsive records at once, I ask that you provide copies of records on a rolling basis, as they become available. If you determine that any of the information qualifies for an exemption from disclosure, I ask you to note whether the exemption is discretionary, and if so whether it is necessary in this case to exercise your discretion to withhold the information. In any event, please provide a signed notification citing the legal authorities on which you rely if you determine that any of the information is exempt and will not be disclosed. The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes. In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
It is not practicable for the records you have requested to be made promptly available for inspection and/or copying because:
1. It has not yet been determined that records responsive to your request exist OR
2. The office is still in the process of retrieving, reviewing, and/or redacting the requested records.
The time reasonably necessary to produce the record(s) or information and/or to make a determination of a proper response to your request is August 31, 2023, if applicable and providing the requested information has been received on or before August 4, 2023.
Additionally, an email was sent to you on or about June 29, 2023, requesting that you respond to the email that was sent to you on May 25, 2023, requesting clarification as to whether a report of the data concerning the teacher on student sexual misconduct will satisfy your request or are you also requesting the personnel files as well? To date, we have yet to receive a response concerning that clarification. At your earliest convenience, please advise as it is possible that you will probably incur labor costs in processing this request but we can't determine those costs accurately until we get clarity on the type of documentation you are seeking. Therefore, we are respectfully, asking you to please respond to this email no later than Friday, August 4, 2023. Please understand that if a response is not received on or before August 4, 2023, we will have no choice but to deny and/or withdraw your request.
Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.
Sincerely,
Open Records Requests Response Team
[Logo Description automatically generated]
Together, we MUST BELIEVE.
Together, we WILL ACHIEVE.
Together, we are REIMAGINING 901.
Shelby County Board of Education offers educational and employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, creed, age, disability, national origin, or genetic information.
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTE: This E-mail (including any attachments) may be Attorney-Client Privileged and is Confidential information covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act 18 U.S.C. Sections 2510-2521 and any other applicable law and is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named herein. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible to deliver it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any retention, dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. Although this E-mail and any attachments are believed to be free of any virus or other defect that might affect any computer system into which it is received and opened, it is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure that it is virus-free and no responsibility is accepted by Shelby County Board of Education, or the author hereof in any way from its use. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return E-mail.
-
image001
From: Shelby County Schools
Good afternoon Mr. Hoover. In response to your open records request received on August 31, 2022, requesting the following:
To Whom It May Concern: Pursuant to the Tennessee Public Records Act, I hereby request the following records: -All separation agreements and settlements reached with current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017, through the day this request is fulfilled. -All public records relating to any and all claims of misconduct against current and former teachers who taught in the district between January 1, 2017, through the day this request is fulfilled. Such public records should include, but not be limited to, all complaints; allegations; claims; investigatory reports; analyses; summaries; memoranda and/or notes; interview recordings; transcripts and/or notes; reviews; emails, text or other electronic messages, voicemails, and/or other communications and/or correspondence; determinations; decisions; orders; resignation letters; employment reclassification documents; offers in compromise and/or settlement agreements; termination and/or transfer papers; letters of reproval and/or other disciplinary actions, whether imposed or not; referrals to law enforcement, administrative, and/or licensing agencies, departments, and/or bodies; appeals; court filings and/or rulings; and all similar materials notwithstanding the use of other terminology, nomenclature, or categorization by this or other involved public agencies. To further clarify this request, the scope of the misconduct at issue arises from, relates to, and/or is a consequence of sexual behavior and/or activities with district students, whether currently or previously enrolled, and notwithstanding whether any such behavior and/or activities were proven to have occurred or not. The construction of this request should be understood to be liberal and expansive, such that all public records which may be remotely responsive should be produced in full and may only be withheld and/or redacted only as required by law. I would like these records in the electronic format that they are stored in, transmitted via email or other digital method; please refrain from sending paper copies of the records. Rather than provide all responsive records at once, I ask that you provide copies of records on a rolling basis, as they become available. If you determine that any of the information qualifies for an exemption from disclosure, I ask you to note whether the exemption is discretionary, and if so whether it is necessary in this case to exercise your discretion to withhold the information. In any event, please provide a signed notification citing the legal authorities on which you rely if you determine that any of the information is exempt and will not be disclosed. The requested documents will be made available to the general public, and this request is not being made for commercial purposes. In the event that there are fees, I would be grateful if you would inform me of the total charges in advance of fulfilling my request. I would prefer the request filled electronically, by e-mail attachment if available or CD-ROM if not.
It is not practicable for the records you have requested to be made promptly available for inspection and/or copying because:
1. It has not yet been determined that records responsive to your request exist OR
2. The office is still in the process of retrieving, reviewing, and/or redacting the requested records.
The time reasonably necessary to produce the record(s) or information and/or to make a determination of a proper response to your request is August 31, 2023, if applicable and providing the requested information has been received on or before August 4, 2023.
Additionally, an email was sent to you on or about June 29, 2023, requesting that you respond to the email that was sent to you on May 25, 2023, requesting clarification as to whether a report of the data concerning the teacher on student sexual misconduct will satisfy your request or are you also requesting the personnel files as well? To date, we have yet to receive a response concerning that clarification. At your earliest convenience, please advise as it is possible that you will probably incur labor costs in processing this request but we can't determine those costs accurately until we get clarity on the type of documentation you are seeking. Therefore, we are respectfully, asking you to please respond to this email no later than Friday, August 4, 2023. Please understand that if a response is not received on or before August 4, 2023, we will have no choice but to deny and/or withdraw your request.
Thank you for your cooperation in this matter.
Sincerely,
Open Records Requests Response Team
[Logo Description automatically generated]
Together, we MUST BELIEVE.
Together, we WILL ACHIEVE.
Together, we are REIMAGINING 901.
Shelby County Board of Education offers educational and employment opportunities without regard to race, color, religion, sex, creed, age, disability, national origin, or genetic information.
______________________________________________________________________________
NOTE: This E-mail (including any attachments) may be Attorney-Client Privileged and is Confidential information covered by the Electronic Communications Privacy Act 18 U.S.C. Sections 2510-2521 and any other applicable law and is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named herein. If the reader of this message is not the intended recipient, or the employee or agent responsible to deliver it to the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that any retention, dissemination, distribution or copying of this communication is strictly prohibited. Although this E-mail and any attachments are believed to be free of any virus or other defect that might affect any computer system into which it is received and opened, it is the responsibility of the recipient to ensure that it is virus-free and no responsibility is accepted by Shelby County Board of Education, or the author hereof in any way from its use. If you have received this communication in error, please immediately notify sender by return E-mail.
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From: Shelby County Schools
Good afternoon Mr. Hoover. Please be advised that as of today, August 10, 2023, we have not received any further clarification from you concerning whether a report of the data concerning the teacher on student sexual misconduct will satisfy your request or if you were also requesting the personnel files. Therefore, this request will be withdrawn and closed.
Thank you for your cooperation in this matter. Have a great rest of your day!
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