A bill has been introduced in the New York State Assembly to appoint an independent state monitor for Buffalo Public Schools.
The new legislation, proposed by Assemblyman Jon Rivera, seeks to restore public confidence in the district’s leadership following a tumultuous few months.
According to the proposed legislation, the monitor would serve as a non-voting ex officio member of the school board; review fiscal and academic decisions, develop long-term improvement plans; ensure compliance with state requirements and increase transparency. The monitor could also intervene when board actions conflict with state law, approved financial plans or academic improvement goals.
“When a school district is facing financial instability, internal conflict, allegations of misconduct, and concerns raised by its own elected board members, the status quo is no longer acceptable,” Rivera said. “The public has every right to demand transparency and accountability. I think, at this point, state intervention is necessary.”
In July, former superintendent Pascal Mubenga resigned following claims of sexual harassment. Current board member Muki Hawkins is also facing claims.
“The goal is not to replace local control. The goal is to restore confidence in local control,” Rivera said. “A State Monitor will help ensure that decisions are made transparently, that taxpayer dollars are spent responsibly, and that the focus returns to where it belongs, which is the classroom. Buffalo’s students cannot afford another year of dysfunction. We need stability and we need leadership that puts students ahead of politics and controversy. This legislation will help us begin rebuilding trust and creating a stronger future for the Buffalo Public Schools.”
State Education Commissioner Betty Rosa had previously appointed an advisor to the district. When she visited district leaders last month, she did say she was leaning toward Buffalo needing a monitor.