Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Parents and Staff: Understanding the ASPIRA, Inc. of Pennsylvania and Charter School Dispute
1. What is happening with ASPIRA Inc. of Pennsylvania and its charter schools?
ASPIRA Inc. of Pennsylvania founded three charter schools: Antonia Pantoja Charter, Eugenio Maria de Hostos Charter, and ASPIRA Bilingual Cyber Charter. Recently, there have been governance and employment disputes between ASPIRA Inc. of PA’s governing board and that of the board of ASPIRA’s school and the leadership, raising concerns about transparency and decision-making.
2. Why are there concerns about staffing changes?
There have been claims that a large number of employees left ASPIRA Inc. of Pennsylvania to work at the schools without proper documentation or transparency in the move. Only three employees have officially resigned. Any employment transitions should be ethical and transparent, without pressure on staff to leave as well as honoring the previous agreements that have been in place over the years.
3. Is ASPIRA open to resolving the dispute?
Yes. ASPIRA Inc. of Pennsylvania is committed to negotiating a fair resolution. However, ASPIRA Inc of PA. believes that what is occurring is not a cooperative restructuring but rather an attempt to take over the schools by the board of ASPIRA’s schools without proper collaboration with the governing board of Aspira Inc. of PA.
4. What is ASPIRA’s role in these schools?
As the founding organization, ASPIRA Inc. of Pennsylvania has a vested interest in the success of these schools. ASPIRA Inc. of PA wants to ensure students receive the best education possible while maintaining ethical governance and operational stability.
5. Who is the interim CEO of ASPIRA Inc. of Pennsylvania?
Since December, Angel Cruz has been serving as the interim CEO of ASPIRA Inc. of Pennsylvania. He is leading the organization through these challenges while advocating for transparency, fairness, and collaboration to support students and staff.
6. Who are the members of ASPIRA Inc. of Pennsylvania’s governing board?
The current board is composed of accomplished leaders with diverse expertise, including a former Judge, respected community stakeholders, an experienced Doctor of Education, former State Representative, and successful business affiliates. Their collective knowledge and leadership ensure strong governance, ethical oversight, and a commitment to providing a safe, productive learning environment for all students.
7. What about the concerns raised regarding the board’s actions?
Some have questioned the actions of ASPIRA Inc. of Pennsylvania’s governing board. While the current board cannot speak for past members, it is fully committed to ensuring a safe and supportive learning environment for students and staff.
8. Are there allegations of misconduct?
There have been mentions of whistleblowers and accusations of record manipulation by the schools. These concerns were properly reported with supporting documentation to the chair of ASPIRA’s school board. ASPIRA Inc. of PA believes these matters should be investigated thoroughly and not used as leverage in ongoing negotiations.
9. What happened with ASPIRA’s interim CEO and staff members on administrative leave?
ASPIRA Inc. of PA’s interim CEO, Angel Cruz, has repeatedly sought access to the schools but has been denied. Additionally, the staff members who were previously placed on administrative leave have also been denied entry despite being cleared of any wrong doings. ASPIRA Inc. of PA has fully complied with all requirements set by the board chair of ASPIRA schools and has provided documentation from an independent firm confirming the clearance of those formerly placed on administrative leave. Despite these efforts, access continues to be denied, creating significant challenges in overseeing operations and ensuring proper management. ASPIRA Inc. of PA remains committed to due process and fair treatment for all employees and urges the board of ASPIRA schools and leadership to act with transparency and integrity, rather than obstructing access necessary for fulfilling the organization’s responsibilities in managing ASPIRA Inc. of PA.
10. What is ASPIRA’s main priority moving forward?
ASPIRA Inc. of PA’s top priority is ensuring that the more than 2,000 students enrolled in these schools receive a high-quality education. ASPIRA Inc. of PA calls for transparency, accountability, and good-faith negotiations with the board of ASPIRA schools to resolve these issues and maintain educational excellence.
11. How can parents and staff stay informed?
ASPIRA Inc. of Pennsylvania encourages parents and staff to actively engage by attending school board meetings, reviewing official communications, and reaching out with any questions or concerns. We believe that open dialogue and collaboration are key to fostering a solution that benefits students, families, and the entire community. Please feel free to inquire and seek clarification from both boards to ensure all voices are heard in this important process.
12. What can parents and staff do to support a resolution?
Parents and staff can advocate for transparency, fairness, and student-centered decision-making by staying informed, voicing concerns, and encouraging school leadership to work collaboratively with ASPIRA Inc. of Pennsylvania for the best interest of all students and employees.