News Release
January 27, 2006
Board Of Education, Denver Classroom Teachers Association Agree To Settle Lawsuit Stemming From 2003 North High School Transfers
In a special meeting today, the Denver Board of Education approved terms of a proposed settlement of a lawsuit brought by four Denver Public Schools employees and the Denver Classroom Teachers Association (DCTA). The plaintiffs previously had agreed to the same terms.
The lawsuit stemmed from five employee transfers initiated by former Superintendent Jerry Wartgow during the 2002-2003 school year. The lawsuit was filed against Denver Public Schools, Wartgow and former North High School Principal Offie Hobbs. The complaint against Wartgow and Hobbs, however, was dismissed.
The district and the plaintiffs amicably settled the lawsuit, avoiding a two- to three-week courtroom trial. The settlement agreement does not constitute an admission of liability on the part of the district or any of its employees; it is only a settlement of disputed claims.
"The settlement does not alter or change the scope of authority for the district's superintendent to transfer teachers," said Andre Pettigrew, Assistant Superintendent for Administrative Services.
For information, contact the DPS Communications Office at 720-423-3414.