Letter: McIntosh Schools in possible violation of accreditation standards

Amid the continued controversy in McIntosh County, it appears that AdvancED/SACS CASI has received complaints from a member of the community that the school system is not in compliance of the Standards for Quality School Systems.

The letter to Superintendent Dr. John Barge, dated September 21st, indicates that complaints were filed after the Board of Education moved the former principal of McIntosh Academy, Barry Lollis, to an alternative school without following the proper procedures. Lollis had served in the capacity of principal for just four weeks. The Board also took such action without the recommendation and against the advice of Superintendent Dr. John Barge.

Annette Bohling, the attorney for AdvancED, noted that if the McIntosh County School System is in violation, a Special Review Team could be appointed to review the system as a whole.

The following letter was provided by two separate sources, neither of whom are Dr. John Barge.

Emails from Board of Education attorney Richy Braun indicate that Braun OK-ed the demotion without the advice of the Superintendent but was ‘troubled’ by the omission of a 940 hearing with regard to the Fair Dismissal Act.

The Board must respond to the letter by issuing a written response to the Georgia office within 30 days. They are expected to meet in Executive Session this week.