State 48 Exclusive: A Candid Conversation with Liberty School Board President Bryan Parks
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In a recent interview, State 48 News sat down with Bryan Parks, the newly appointed President of the Liberty Elementary School District Governing Board, to discuss recent developments within the district.
It would be an understatement to say that things have been chaotic in the district.
Topics Covered in Our Exclusive Interview with Bryan Parks:
1. The issue of questionably high salaries and bonuses for Arizona superintendents.
2. The role of consulting companies in shaping school board decisions.
3. Addressing student discipline and its impact on school culture.
4. How changes under the Trump Administration could affect education policy.
5. The debate over abolishing the U.S. Department of Education and its implications.
6. Student proficiency scores, Common Core, and academic performance in Liberty Elementary School District.
7. Recent resignations within the district and their impact on leadership.
8. Calls for Parks to step down and his response to the controversy.
9. Lessons learned from leaked conversations and how it has shaped his approach to leadership.
Background
Bryan Parks has been a board member since 2021 and was elected to a four-year term in 2022.
In October 2024, the Governing Board underwent a reorganization following the resignation of former President Michael Todd. Bryan Parks, who was serving as Vice President, was elevated to President, and Kris Kenyon was elected as Vice President.
The district has faced several challenges in recent months. In December 2024, the Governing Board approved a controversial 20% pay bonus for Superintendent Dr. Cort Monroe, leading to debates within the community.
Additionally, Parks drew criticism after numerous private statements were leaked, leading to public scrutiny.
News of proposed “sick-outs” scheduled for February 3 and 4 have been circulating in social media for weeks. State 48 News reported on that here. On the afternoon of January 30, 2025, the district released a statement regarding the teacher actions and clarifying claims vacancies and funding.
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