Bravo, Mainstream Media
TELEVISION TUNES INTO OUR “SEX, LIES AND EDUCRATS” SHOW
FITSNews – August 12, 2008 – It’s been over a month since we first published our controversial “Sex, Lies and Educrats” story, a brilliant piece of investigative journalism that exposed alleged corruption and infidelity in a Midlands, S.C. school district.
Since our story broke, the district’s superintendent has resigned and his alleged paramour has been placed on indefinite leave, yet the mainstream media have refused to address the real reasons behind these personnel moves.
Well, tonight the MSM’s long silence was finally broken by WIS-TV, which has obtained court papers detailing the alleged affair between former Lexington-Richland District 5 Superintendent Scott Andersen and Melissa Cole, a principal at an elementary school in the district.
From the WIS report, we learn the following …
Obtained court documents may answer the questions behind they mysterious resignation of former Lexington-Richland District Five Superintendent Dr. Scott AndersEn.
In divorce papers filed with the Richland County Family Court, AndersEn’s wife Bernice accuses him of adultery.
She says Scott began a relationship with another woman in late March. By May 27, the couple had agreed to terms of a divorce. By the end of July, AndersEn was out as district superintendent.
The clerk’s office said it could not provide a copy of the settlement, but we were allowed to review it. The agreement lays out specific terms of the couple’s separation and divorce, including custody and support of the couple’s children, division of assets, and in an agreement signed by AndersEn, he acknowledges he had an affair with a woman named Melissa Cole.
The documents say on or about March 28 and again on April 9 of this year, the defendant “did engage in an adulterous relationship with one Melissa Cole.”
The paperwork does not specifically identify her as such, but Cole is the principal of District Five’s River Springs Elementary School.
With the start of the school year only days away, Cole has been, according to the district, “on leave” for about two weeks.
Yikes. Oh, and in case you’re wondering about the odd spelling above, former Superintendent Andersen has long insisted that media outlets spell his name “AndersEn,” which we have consistently refused to do because it looks flippin’ ridiculous.
Anyway, with Andersen himself now on the record admitting the affair with Cole, expect the heat to be turned up on the embattled principal, although we continue to believe she shouldn’t be fired.
After all, it was Andersen – not Cole – who intentionally misled citizens about the need for a quarter-billion dollar bond referendum for the district.
That’s the real scandal in our book … and not surprisingly the mainstream media is asleep at the wheel on that one, too.
UPDATE – It looks like the “affair” portion of this scandal is now statewide news … the Associated Press just picked it up.
Comments
By The other shoe drops... on August 12th, 2008 at 6:52 pm
Well, well… what’cha gotta say now Cole Brigade?
By Question for Will on August 12th, 2008 at 7:06 pm
Question for Will. Why do think Mrs. Cole hasn’t been fired yet? If the board new of this information before now, why such a long investigation? I’d love to read YOUR opinion (not all of the pro or anti-Coles).
By smart Kid Grant on August 12th, 2008 at 7:57 pm
sic, check your email…
By Where is everyone now? on August 12th, 2008 at 7:57 pm
OK let’s get ready for the Cole Brigade’s next round of excuses. Any guesses as to their spin? Oh I know…”These are still lies! There’s nothing Melissa ColE could ever do wrong! AndersEn doesn’t know what he’s talking about! Where’s the proof? It’s not like he was there! She was only Doin’ It for the kids”
By fitsnews on August 12th, 2008 at 8:27 pm
#2-
We don’t know why not … but then again, we’re not of the opinion Melissa Cole should be fired.
Why not?
a) we’re not judgmental Bible-thumpers
b) from everything we’ve been able to gather, she does a good job
c) she was the subordinate, not the superintendent (big difference)
d) we thought andersen should be fired for faking numbers, not having an affair
oh, and lest we forget Sic Willie’s rationale …
e) she’s smokin’ hot!
Anyway, it’s not up to us what happens to her, but we would be more than happy to offer Melissa a chance to respond to all of this right here on FITSNews if she wants to …
Seriously, no intrusion from us, just Melissa in her own words saying whatever she wants to say about the situation. We wouldn’t edit it or anything … just post it verbatim and let her have her say.
What do y’all think?
-FITSNews
By Over the edge on August 12th, 2008 at 8:42 pm
Of course Ms. Cole should be let go, allowed to resign, “retire”, or be fired; whatever the going terminology is in the district for the day. She is apparently as unethical and unprofessional as the former Superintendent. What kind of a message does it send the faculty, staff, parents and children if you are allowed to do whatever you want just because you are “good at your job” or in your words “smokin hot”? So a 4.0 student gets caught drinking, or with a weapon or sexually harrassing YOUR child on school grounds…they are good at their school work, so no punishment? That is absolute BS. Dig your heads out of sand.
By Jack B. on August 12th, 2008 at 9:18 pm
I hope at least Melissa will be kind enough to give Mr. Hot zipper a ride on rainy days since he only has his moped and a boat.
By The facts are known; it's time to move on... on August 12th, 2008 at 9:39 pm
Glad to finally read and hear the facts on wistv.com (Jack Kuenzie’s video is available for viewing on line at wistv.com).
As a parent of a child who has been under Melssia’s reign as prinicpal, IMO it’s time for a change. This has been a hot topic among parents and residents in the RSES attendance area. Unfortunately many older RSES students have heard the discussions, have asked questions about what’s going on, want to know if what they have heard about their principal is true, etc. Many know what’s going on — and that’s sad considering these are elementary school children digesting all this information.
Given Melissa’s role as principal and the daily interaction with parents and kids the job requires, there are those (parents and probably some students) who will feel uncomfortable dealing with her knowing the facts of the recent past – especially now that the true facts are known. It’s no longer hearsay or speculation; the facts are in documents filed in Richland County Family Court. While many may argue this recent history shouldn’t matter at all nor will it affect their relationship or interaction with her, for many others it will. There are many parents and students who will feel uncomfortable given the facts that we now know.
In order for this community to heal and move forward with a new school year starting next week, the board should assign a new experienced principal to RSES ASAP. The board should either place Melissa within an administrative role in the district (not in a leadership role) — or she could take the high road and resign her position and move on with her life. She faces many challenges ahead in her personal life given the circumstances.
It’s time for healing in the RSES community now that the facts are known. Prayers and well wishes go out for both families; and especially for the children affected in both the Andersen and Cole families. They have some difficult emotions and issues to deal with in the weeks, months, and even years ahead.
By MYOB on August 12th, 2008 at 10:03 pm
underage drinking, weapons on school grounds, sexual harrassment – all against the law.
consenting adults engaging in sexual activity – none of our business
BIG difference.
I still think Melissa Cole is an excellent principal and I still want her back as our principal. I never considered whether they were in a relationship relevant (or any of my business). Her business was to be a leader for our school, and she is an exceptional one.
If we let go everyone who ever cheated on their spouse, we would all be home schooling. Look up the statistics.
I do not condone extra-marital affairs, but they do happen, and I am not about to tar and feather someone, or make them walk around with a scarlet A.
What is it whith River Springs, you ask? It’s no different than anywhere else. But, for some reason, people love to talk about us.
By I propose a new nickname... on August 12th, 2008 at 10:04 pm
Cool RidEr
By pictures? on August 12th, 2008 at 10:05 pm
LMAO Jack B. Best post I have seen!
When they were talking investigation I thought maybe they had pictures at first I was like KEWWLL then I thought oooohhhh wait he might be in some of the shots. EEWWW
By Lost Interview on August 12th, 2008 at 11:10 pm
Hey I found this on the youtube. I appears to be a Fits video interview with Andersen and Cole. The lighting is a little bad so I am not sure if it is them. Check out Andersen’s response to splitting the referendum
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9GNhdQRbXhc
By District Christmas Party on August 12th, 2008 at 11:29 pm
I can’t really tell but I think this may be footage from the District Christmas party. If you look close I think you can see Andersen, Cole and most of the Board members.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NGhoRRm0I5M
By No longer a rumor on August 13th, 2008 at 12:07 am
No excuses now that there is proof of the relationship. Mrs Cole is a good principal and some school will be lucky to have her as their principal, I just don’t see how she can realistically stay at RSES. I feel sorry for the families involved.
By Vote Yes Video Proposal on August 13th, 2008 at 12:23 am
Again the lighting is bad but I was told that this may be what Andersen had proposed for a video commercial for the Say Yes Vote. I heard 2 of the Board members really like the concept video
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m3ceCMpPJgc
By TE on August 13th, 2008 at 1:06 am
Fitnews is wrong – M. Cole should be fired – she has no defense for her actions.
M. Cole defenders… let her go – she’s a principal without principles and no role model for your daughters (and sons).
Over-crowding issue whiners – it’s not a real problem with a quarter billion dollar solution. Hallways are supposed to be crowded during class change. “Build it and they will come” may help Mungo, but not taxpayers or their children.
District 5 Board – two strikes on Supt selection decisions.
Buddy Price – has he ever said anything substantive? Oh, Buddy, I think the secrets are out about the “personnel matters” you can’t discuss, EVER!
District 5 Supporters – I feel your pain, but stop trying to defend the indefensible. Demand accountability!
By smart Kid Grant on August 13th, 2008 at 8:24 am
I would just like to make sure that you know that the statistics used to make the reasons for the referendum seem wrong, are in fact an egregious misuse of statistics. The main thing is that when they say that Irmo has only grown by a few students in 15 years, remember that Dutch Fork was built during that time. Also the reason for the referendum is not because of Irmo, it is because of the extreme growth of the district out in the Dutch Fork area (you can use Elementary school statistics to pinpoint growth).
By Daniel J on August 13th, 2008 at 8:33 am
Let he without sin cast the first stone….
I feel sorry for everyone involved – their lives and their families’ lives are forever changed and I pray that forgiveness and healing replace the stones being hurled.
The school board should have accepted the invitation of their critics to work toward a solution to their space needs/wants. Hopefully after this referendum is defeated they’ll grow up and have a few meetings to get it right.
The school board critic (Carlson) should grow a pair and put his name on the ballot since he professes to be an expert – at least Murphy had the courage to do so.
By Class sizes on August 13th, 2008 at 8:34 am
MYOB – You are crazy. Where are the statistics you reference that indicate every teacher has cheated on their spouse? You may condone adultery, but others don’t. The question is judgement. Two marriages broken, nine children hurt, one (hopefully two) jobs lost all for a couple of romps in the hay? I call that BAD JUDGEMENT! If she is willing to put her own kids through this how do you expect her to care about ours?
Give it up.
By You ready for more? on August 13th, 2008 at 9:01 am
Wow! So…as I sit here drinking coffee we are with yet another interim superintendent. Another bond referendum salesman … just as Ms. Murphy said Monday night at the Board meeting.
As of this a.m., and with the truth out (thanks to Jack K.and FitsNews… who did it again) most of us feel like we need a second shower after seeing the press coverage of what has been quite literally the hottest story of the summer locally and all supported and perpetuated by our Board leadership and for the third time!
But on a more substantive basis, we all should know for sure that Big E swept the Board on a promise to shock and awe the taxpayers (well, I AM shocked) with his “in your face” slide shows of flying portables, his cooked enrolllment stats, his purchases of 150 “put um’ where they’ll see um” portables @ 50,000 taxpayer dollars each plus all hookups/repairs/ maintenance/stairs etc. each (see today’s The State). And of course there’s his deep family and religious convictions (shout out to our new D5 role model Melissa C. here and her tearful supporters) and his mandate to staff to sign on for the bond choo-choo or else ( the one Hite/White/Gantt assembled when they hired the last salesman, the “one” and only TEC – Putting (All) Children First at least when I’m not golfing- Dowling).
Yes, Big E sold them all on his political prowess…an endearing characteristic to certain Board members who are this week let’s say concerned about “legacy” /campaign donations and the like about now. He was one of Mitt Romney’s county co-chairs in the primary during the bond run up…ck. it out! The Board representing the taxpayers ought to seek that type of person out for $171,000 – right? say what?
Then, the majority of parents/taxpayers/teachers finally overcame the tendency to bow to this pressure framed as we vs. them and voted No. The Board fueled far too much by growth competition and by the politics to get houses built on Little Mtn. voted, let me repeat… No….. again. And I’m guessing will do it again until the professional grade narcissism stops and a more humble concern for keeping our students education enters the fray. I’m talkin’ about much better JOB programming (I know all about the one new cosmetology, the ongoing auto and carpentry which are national award winners) to stop the fast increase in the rate of drop outs, flunk outs, administrative removals, etc. and text those on SAT who want to go to college. I call that improving education and increasing the test scores. Say What? Yes, move big time toward BOTH quality, high level post-secondary 2 and 4 yr. courses but much more emphasis on non-college true job tracks affecting more than half of students inside our taxpayer funded facilities as THE top priority.
I’m hearing the “split the bond” question has a deadline for wording
BY THIS FRIDAY ……..(the one splitting it into “do the right thing for existing facilities and deal with the cluster in the woods later”)
or, be ready for more of the same folks.
And in November, why not vote to clean out the District Office of the entire bond campaign staff and hire some real educators and elect some real Board members with old fashion leadership experience and get a forensic audit done to find out what is being doen with the existing funds beyond the shell game called budgeting perfected years ago.. I call that accountability and the time has really come…just read the papers and watch TV.
By disgusted district 5 grad and parent on August 13th, 2008 at 9:04 am
I went to school and graduated from District 5 schools-and yes I attended high school and college with Melissa Cole-and my children now attend District 5 schools and I have never been more ashamed to be an Irmo graduate as I am right now. I feel sick to my stomach that adults can’t keep it together anymore than this. So many children have been hurt by AndersEn’s and Cole’s actions-and I am not speaking of the kids at RSES-I am talking about the AndersEn and Cole children. Not only did these two much respected educators waste taxpayer time and money, but two families have now been destroyed by all of this. Our district has yet another black eye. A whole lot of screws need to be tightened in this district-NOW!!!
By Smart Kids Granted on August 13th, 2008 at 9:48 am
Hey #17 I just want to understand your logic…. 11 years prior to the first referendum our district made the decision to build a new school because by adding a new school they could address growth. I think that is what you are saying.
So now we are looking at 1/4 of a billion dollar additional needed to build yet another school because the facilities at Irmo and Dutch Fork are too small….. Ahhhh I see. So which is it? The Board lack foresight and accurate projections back in the 90’s or now?
So in 10 years will we have to do it again?
How is it that Summerville with higher growth rates can build a new school at Fort Dorchester without going back to the coffers over and over and satisfy their needs.
I really like the video advertisement with Brittney above ‘Gimme More’
Kind sums it all up.
By bruce on August 13th, 2008 at 10:28 am
#17 Smart Kid Grant… not so smart.
You’re wrong. Dutch Fork High opened in 1992-1993 – fifteen years ago. District 5’s data shows enrollment at Irmo High School that year – the year DFH opened – to be 1,925 students. This year, IHS has 2,012 students. Do the math…That’s a difference of 87 students in 15 years. DFH not a factor – more administration spin.
Interesting FACT:
Dutch Fork High – a 2,200-student school – opened in 1992-1993. The year BEFORE it opened, Irmo High School had 2,096 students. The next year, DFH opened with students rezoned from Irmo and IHS was left with 1,925 students — IHS only decreased in enrollment by 171 students (2,096 -1,925) with a brand new school opening! Seem odd? Well, the year DFH opened, 9th graders were moved up from the middle schools and put in the high schools increasing the enrollment at the two high schools.
Today, had DFH not been built and Irmo High remaining a 10th – 12th grade high school, Irmo High would have only 2,913 students – not the 4,000 as District 5 administration wrongly states in their “Fact or Fiction” propaganda.
District 5 has been trying to get Irmo folks to vote for the referendum (new schools) by scaring them into thinking that IHS will grow by 2,000 students in the next 10 years. Baloney!! New schools will only further the decline in enrollment and other areas of Irmo the Irmo commnuity.
YOU can just look at the elementary schools to see how the population SHIFTED out of Irmo to Dutch Fork because of new schools/Mungo subdivisions – not “extreme” growth as you say.
Why are you so sold on new schools and why is the administration deceiving the voters??? Split the referendun. Many have shared with me that they support the needed renovations and already-designed additions – but not new schools. Me too.
By Jackson on August 13th, 2008 at 10:44 am
More video of Andersen on youtube? I think this one was a recording of his exit speech from his last district.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELpk3NfqIg4
By Stefanie on August 13th, 2008 at 12:41 pm
I’m so ready to get out of this district. This is about as embarrassing as it comes. And to those who don’t think Cole should go – you have no values when it comes to who is teaching your kids. She is nothing but a whore. Period. And you want you’re children led by a whore?
By Jackson on August 13th, 2008 at 12:54 pm
WOW there is may be actual video footage of Andersen trying to demonstrate to Don Carlson how the school district got the numbers they got for their projections. Interesting mathematical models
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7WMi5TUJDso
By Just Wondering on August 13th, 2008 at 1:50 pm
Just wondering if Melissa’s ex is “hot”?
By Disgusted on August 13th, 2008 at 4:00 pm
MYOB, you have the mindset of many. Many that don’t have any morals. Maybe you could be next in line for the principalship at River Springs. You could follow the lead of the last two principals there with no “principles”.
#16 is correct. It is time for accountability from the top to the bottom and everywhere in between
By daniel on August 13th, 2008 at 4:14 pm
Way to go Community! Last I checked, none of us is perfect. Has anybody stopped to think about the character of the accusation “adulterous relationship”? That could simply mean that one party expressed feelings to the other party. That does not mean that any sexual engagement ever happened! Regardless- who are we to judge! #25- How dare you call her a whore! And no, before someone starts in, I do not CONDONE adultery, nor do I believe that the children in this matter were not hurt-I’m not ignorant! However- do not claim to care about the lives of our children when you so willingly call a great leader a whore. You DO NOT and will not ever know the details of their relationship, nor will you ever be granted the good right to judge someone.
And for the record, I would not ever want MY kids led by someone who so easily can throw that around based on her own lack of character and morals!
By Photo Proof? on August 13th, 2008 at 4:32 pm
Supposedly we have PHOTOGRAPHIC EVIDENCE?
http://www.cryptomundo.com/cryptozoo-news/ga-gorilla-pic/
By Thrown to speculation on August 13th, 2008 at 4:36 pm
What is the difference between an adultrous relationship as stated in the divorce papers and adultry? Do you have to name someone in this type case? Looks like Andersen threw Cole to the dogs in this paper work.
By Sollicitus Civis on August 13th, 2008 at 5:41 pm
Where is Principal Eddie Walker and all his self-righteous indignation? Even though adultery is in the top 10 list, I guess his silence indicates he is OK with it. Nothing like selective religious ideology.
By freida on August 13th, 2008 at 9:19 pm
stay tuned people….
adultry by definition is meeting the needs of another individual other than or in place of your spouse. This could be physical, emotional, financial. etc. This is not to be confused with giving to those in need out of good spirit, rather when you detach from your spouse and denounce your vows by becoming consumed by another.
so do not jump to horrible, life-altering presumptions that Melissa Cole receipricated anything that may have been given or spoken by Dr. big E.
By Proof Positive on August 13th, 2008 at 9:54 pm
Cole needs to go. This is an embarassment to the district and to their families. We need to teach our kids there are consequences to this type of behavior. I have no idea why some are STILL defending her. Let’s move on and let her go.
By More yet? on August 13th, 2008 at 10:09 pm
Is it true that there is more “news” to come on this matter?
By WIS-TV on August 14th, 2008 at 8:08 am
More news to come on this is the morning paper stating that Anderson didn’t say he had such an affair. In fact, this is just an allegation by his wife. WIS-TV’s lead story was “Anderson admits to affair.” Apparently, this was not true. Get the facts straight WIS.
By the state paper on August 14th, 2008 at 8:45 am
THE PAPER ONE DAY SAYS ANDERSEN ADMITS AFFAIR. THE NEXT DAY IT SAYS HE DIDN’T ADMIT OR DENY IT. THAT HIS WIFE MADE ALLEGATIONS CONCERNING THIS. WHAT’S THE TRUTH HERE?
By WIS-TV on August 14th, 2008 at 9:04 am
You Cole supporters amaze me. I don’t think I would give up my marriage, SEVEN kids, home, a ton of money in alimony, child support, etc. so easily if the accusation wasn’t true. I think I would “contest” it.
She accepted a leadership position. She accepted the responsibilities that come with it such as being an upstanding citizen. Now she needs to accept responsibility for her actions, resign, and let this community move on.
By Stefanie on August 14th, 2008 at 4:03 pm
to 29 – the Bible says to judge rightously. And a woman who has an affair with a married man is a whore. Great leaders don’t engage in such activity.
By Webster on August 14th, 2008 at 5:38 pm
The Bible also spells “righteously” correctly. So we all have our weaknesses don’t we?
By the state paper on August 14th, 2008 at 5:45 pm
Go look at the divorce papers on file. You will see that the allegations of adultry are from Andersen’s wife and her attorney. Andersen only signed the property settlement. Spend some time looking at these before you believe WIS television or the paper’s initial headline. Go look, review and then talk. These allegations are old hat anyway. Go LOOK>
By the state paper on August 14th, 2008 at 5:46 pm
Fits News = why don’t you look at the papers on file?
By daniel on August 14th, 2008 at 5:57 pm
i’m pretty sure that you did not use this course of communication to “judge righteously” by calling Melissa Cole a whore! You know why you did and that’s pathetic to respond this way.
I agree with you and many others about the idea that leaders have a greater responsiblity to act responsibly. I dont doubt that it comes iwth the territory. I also agree that a lapse in judgement cost the two families a great deal of pain and heartache. My concern is that for as long as I can remember in all of my years in education, we are taught to “hate the crime, not the person”. And by calling her such an awful name is just plain hurtful. None of us knows the extent to which the alleged affair went and we will never know the absolute truth, nor do we need to!
And since we speaking biblically, God also calls us to help others. I mean, even Jesus Himself healed a prosititute and befriended the outcasts. Yet, we cannot even find it in ourselves to pull together for sake of our districts’ reputation, and the people in it to at the very least be nice??? It looks much worse to kick someone when they’re down than to forgive and forget. And by not being completely cruel people, it does not suggest that we overlook and condone any ind of immoral behavior. It just shows that we care enough about the people in this community to either lend a hand or stay out of it!. All the praises about her as a leader, mentor, and person should not be discounted or forgotten. This does not wipe that away. So she doesn’t remain in a position of influence—that’s fair. But come on…. If you cant say something nice, dont say anything. It just doesnt help.
By Stefanie on August 14th, 2008 at 7:42 pm
Daniel – I have no use for a woman who has an affair with a married man. Not to mention, she, too, is married. I call them like I see them. Sorry, if that offends you. Regardless, she shouldn’t be in a position of authority over young children. They are not stupid. I’m sure many of them already know what has happened. And, by allowing her to stay on as principal, it sends the wrong message to these kids.
Webster – I realized I had misspelled “righteously” as soon as I hit send. Unfortunately, you can’t edit on here.
By Think.think... on August 14th, 2008 at 9:19 pm
Anyone think that maybe, just maybe, that he decided to throw Cole to the wolves and “say” they had an affair versus possibly having to defend that perhaps there was sexual harassment? Pay a little now to the wife and allege an affair instead of pay a whole lot to wife AND to Cole for sexual harassment.
By pagans on August 14th, 2008 at 9:31 pm
Whew all this bible talk about whores, sinners and Jesus. Makes me glad I am a pagan. So I can say it with impunity. He was a cheese ball the day he was hired and he is a cheese ball today. At least us pagans try to keep our marriages together and not go out looking for a hot piece of a…
Hey did ya’ll know the moon is almost full LMAO….
By Reunite the family on August 15th, 2008 at 2:42 am
Let’s hope and pray Andersen comes to his senses and goes home to his wife and kids. Seven kids is a lot for a woman to have to care for by herself. Let’s pray for reuniting for this family.
By District 5 - THANK YOU! on August 15th, 2008 at 4:35 am
I was a parent from another D5 school. My kindergarten child was was able to get into the RSES first grade through school of choice because there was space available in this grade level. Not all grade levels had space. I am THRILLED to send my child there. The teachers and staff were professional and helpful as I signed up my child yesterday. You can see that they have moved forward with the their task of educating our children. I say OUR children because I mean all children. Since the faculty is moving forward, and there are some of YOU that have issues, perhaps YOU should make a change. If you feel the principal or staff are not to your liking, please feel free to look into private education or the school of choice option. To those of you that have obvious issues with the policies and management of District 5, feel free to focus on the ISSUES and let this negativity campaign directed at one elementary school drop. Your words affect the children. The children hear their parents talk and the community at large around them talking negatively. Some of the older students at RSES have already discovered his blog. I am sure. If you have issues with the district, keep it fair. The Cole thing is over. Let RSES heal and prosper. For parents that are there and are not happy within their situation, feel free to seek other schools for your children. That’s what I did. I was LUCKY to become the proud parent of a River Springs Navigator. The district recognizes that not all parents are happy in their zoned school, and does try to make accomodations when space is available at other schools that have philosphies more inline with that parents’ views. I appreciate district 5 giving us this option. Thank you!
By Daniel J on August 15th, 2008 at 3:10 pm
Stefanie – your twisted theology needs a refresher – please talk about this issue with your Pastor.
Yes, there will be judgement and (thankfully) it won’t be by stefanie – perhaps this is why we haven’t seen any stonings on WIS?
Have a wonderful weekend all – and try to stay awake for the whole sermon on Sunday lest you miss the good parts!
By the truth about the divorce papers on August 15th, 2008 at 6:20 pm
Daniel – yes you did see stonings on WIS. They did not report the facts straight. They mixed the wife’s so called ALLEGATIONS and said Mr. ANDERSEN admitted them. Go look at the divorce records. The allegations are from her and he only signed the proerty settlement. He did not sign off and admit any of the allegations.However, they reported he admitted to adultery. The State Newspaper straighted this out the next day. Let
s’s hope WIS will do the same.
By Lake Murray Elementary on August 15th, 2008 at 6:29 pm
#50. You are right about the allegations. These are old news. Been around Lake Murray since the spring. Perhaps the principal there should have done something about this.Maybe she tried?
By Allegations on August 15th, 2008 at 6:44 pm
Stonings on WIS – yes there were huge stonings on WIS. They misrepresented the facts. Scott Andersen, according to the court records on file – GO LOOK – DID NOT ADMIT TO ADULTERY. He only signed the property agreement. His wife was the one who , with her attorney, claimed adultery and this is only an allegation by her. This type of allegation is old news by her. She has been spreading these rumors since early spring .
By Allegations on August 15th, 2008 at 6:47 pm
#50. You are right. I had a friend examine the record. I was shocked when I saw the WIS report, but after talking to my friend I realized they took her allegations and said he said them.
By Just Thinking on August 15th, 2008 at 8:34 pm
Hey Daniel (#49), some of us go to Temple on Friday, some of us celebrate the full moon. Some of us tie prayer rags to poles. We don’t all go to church on Sunday. Talk about insensitive. Perhaps you should read “Sidhartha” or “The Chosen” and talk to your Pastor yourself.
District 5 (#48), perhaps you should think about who you are thanking. School choice was a State program established to deal with AYP grades.
Think Think (#45), You right on! That is definitely a possibility. I don’t think we have heard the last of this. If I were Cole, I would have me a REALLY good lawyer. You teachers and parents out there that want to support her, don’t talk to the Board. Tell your friend to get a LAWYER and keep her mouth shut. 5:1 she walks away with her Teaching Certificate and a nice little severance package.
If Think Think is right…. guess where the investigation goes next. Knowledge of sexual harassment with non-action. Ouch.
By Sara on August 15th, 2008 at 9:57 pm
So does this mean she gets fired because she slept with the boss or she gets bought off ’cause she might sue for sexual harassment? If Andersen gets $10,000 and 20 days of paid vacation for sleeping with the principal, what should she get?
By can you say gender discrimination... on August 15th, 2008 at 11:34 pm
I believe you are indeed thinking #52. The notion that Cole should be “fired” is ludicrous! Can you imagine the public outcry, not to mention the potential legal action, should the district send the boss man on his way with settlement money and a neutral reference and then go after the female subordinate with a threat of termination?! I believe this board is certainly smart enough to understand the potential fallout from such a blatant move.
By Who Cares? Just rezone! on August 16th, 2008 at 6:48 am
This story has now run its course. Move on. We have a big job ahead of us. Let’s focus on the positive. It does not matter if there was ever an affair or not. What we need to do is keep the focus on alleviating overcrowded conditions in schools. I think that a rezone is a viable solution. Again, I have seen the ugly side of rezoning. Everyone is all for it, until their neighborhood or children are effected. If the district decides to rezone, they should draw the lines with NO input from the community. Just redraw the lines like they do in Richland two and let the cards fall where they may. Keep neighborhoods together and trust that all district 5 schools have quality teachers and programs. Good luck school board. Redraw away!
By REZONE PLEASE!!! on August 16th, 2008 at 10:37 am
As #48 alluded to, there is room in some schools. As a matter of fact, if you would look into it, the schools in Chapin (Chapin El., Lake Murray, Chapin Middle, and Chapin High) are all crying out that they are overcrowded, but “someone” in the DO still keeps allowing kids that are not zoned for those schools to attend those schools. Check into it…there are kids zoned for schools in the lower part of the school district that are attending Chapin schools. And we are told it is because they were “grandfathered” in by some prior ruling. Hogwash!! If the schools are crowded and require portable classrooms, then the only kids that should be going there are kids that are zoned for those schools. And if RSES has room (like #48 says they do) then we need to rezone. I’m sure that is not the only school that has available seats. It’s that simple. If these parents want their kids to attend Chapin schools, then they need to move to Chapin.
I totally agree with #57 in that the School Board needs to do the job they were elected to do. It does no good to open up the rezoning issue to all of these public forums where people will just whine about their own particular interests and neighborhoods. The Board needs to make the decision and just do it already. Don’t worry about pacifying voters…you may have already done yourself in anyway with the Superintendent debacle.
By VOTE NO on August 16th, 2008 at 12:26 pm
I agree with the rezoning. Start at Seven-OAKS and fill all the schools. After the way the district office and board handled the superintendent issue I will vote NO to build more schools anyway.
By VOTE NO on August 16th, 2008 at 12:43 pm
Vote No. I agree. I voted Yes last time but the way Dr. Bollman and the Board have handled Andersen’s departure and Cole’s situation is disgusting. What goes around comes around. VOTE NO.
By Lawyer on August 16th, 2008 at 12:46 pm
To: #54. You suggest Cole get a lawyer. I believe she has a good one who handles a lot of these types of cases.
By just thinking on August 16th, 2008 at 9:11 pm
I am glad she has a good one and I hope she makes a real good wage for this. Andersen should have been fried. More importantly if the board knew about this situation prior to the renewal to Big E’s contract, then they should be held liable individually and civilly liable in my opinion.
I am sick to death about this.
I want to see Gantt and Sloop provide civil documentation that they nor the organizations with which they are involved will in no way make money regarding the sell or management of real estate within a 30 mile radius of Chapin. I want to see White sign a punitive contract that says his organization will not make money from the development of any bond referendum passage. Under those conditions I might consider something other than a NO vote.
Chapin is SO SMALL they don’t offer Latin nor German nor Russian. If you are on the AP path you have to take AP Biology in certain years and AP chemistry in certain years because they do not offer it every year. This reduced class size has had adverse affects on my child. If you want to take any of these critically important classes you have to travel to different schools in the district. We have not let our child do that. I want to see Chapin expanded before we discuss additional schools.
People, consolidate the overages into an expanded Chapin and stop all this discussion about the referendum.
Maybe we all need to get good lawyers as a class action….
By just thinking on August 16th, 2008 at 9:21 pm
More I think about it. The district has with intention reduced class size and maintained smaller schools with the use of portables. In exchange my child was not able to take Latin, German which we desired. In addition my child was forced to double up on certain classes so as to fulfill the AP requirements because of reduced offerings at Chapin.
Are these hardships a function of the mismanagement of the Board? Has my child and others been neglected effective education opportunities because of the desire to create a new school and reduce the class sizes by the administration. If so are they liable for our hardships? hhhmmmm Guess I have calls to make in the morning….
By Sum it up on August 16th, 2008 at 11:32 pm
I think this may sum up what we are all starting to think of the District 5 leaders
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8oSoYXrAWdw
By REZONE REZONE REZONE on August 17th, 2008 at 3:10 am
Talk about Cole is counterproductive. REZONE – REZONE – REZONE. Make RSES a primary school K-2 and OPES a 3-5 school like they did in some of the Lexington One schools. This will provide a better utilization of space with two schools that are so close together. Don’t hire consultants. They are expensive and we have ALREADY done that. Keep neighborhoods together. The district already has the numbers with the space available in each school. Just REDRAW the lines for 09-10 and be done. Let parents get letters in the mail about what their new school will be and be done with it. If they don’t like the rezoning of their neighborhoods, they can move into the new attendance zone of another school. REZONE – REDRAW – RENEW district 5. There is room behind Chapin High to either rebuild, and add on. Make Irmo High a magnet high school for the Arts and Academics to attract students. They may have to drive a little for more advanced programs, but it will attract students and teachers. The time is now to begin making changes for next school year. Abandon these nonproductive speculations on DID he? Or DIDN’T he? DId SHE? Or DIDN’T she? WHO CARES. Those of you that are so morally upset, MOVE if it bothers you. That will be one less that we have to count in our population and you can find your Utopia that you are so desperately looking for. I hope your CHILDREN never make a mistake. And I certainly hope that they are never persecuted like Cole. Move on LITERALLY. District 5 is done with the controversary. There are those that realize that this whole conversation true or not is being bated by the same hate group that manipulates board meetings with mistruths. They won this battle. Great. They ruined the lives of people. Great. FORGET THIS TRASH and REZONE. Keep to the REAL issues.
By rezone options on August 17th, 2008 at 1:26 pm
#65 Rezone makes sense. Take the bulging DF and Irmo folk and send them to Chapin. Expand Chapin using Berg’s tactic of property encumbrance circumventing voters and enabling the expansion and renovation of schools. No need for a referendum – No need for additional taxation. The “hate” group gets what they want, no new taxes, the district gets what they claim they want, expanded and renovated schools capable of supporting everyone. When Chapin, DF and Irmo all get to the size of Summerville, Dorman and Spartanburg then talk about an additional school. I vote to move forward too.
BTW – I don’t believe a “hate” group can make people act inappropriately, no matter how good they are. No one wins with talk of that nature.
By A different Option on August 17th, 2008 at 2:47 pm
“Back in the day” when I went to HS we were allowed to leave campus or come to school late if we were meeting our graduation requirements. This certainly left the HS less crowded and students weren’t forced to fill up their “8″ classes with courses they didn’t need or want to take. For example I took English, Calculus, SS and accounting senior year and left school at noon to work at my part-time job at the mall. Having this option also kept some poorer students from dropping out of HS to make $$ for their family etc…Maybe District 5 could rethink their rules about students not being allowed to leave campus or have “empty” blocks in their schedule.
By Dr. Andersen should have known better on August 17th, 2008 at 6:02 pm
Melissa Cole was the subordinate. Dr. Andersen was the boss and he should have NEVER “gone after” a young, smart, successful lady. He has tarnished her reputation and ruined her professionally. He should be ashamed of himself. Melissa Cole is not innocent in all of this but she is a victim in some ways.
By A different Option on August 17th, 2008 at 6:12 pm
Also, maybe we should allow all students the option of taking English , US History, Economics, and US government in the summer or be able to double up on these courses so they could easily graduate in 3 years. Having to take 8 courses a year + already being able to get several HS credits in MS (Alg, Geo, Foreign Lang and keyboarding) almost all students could theoretically graduate in 3 years… helping with overcrowding and decreasing dropouts.
By REZONE REZONE REZONE on August 17th, 2008 at 6:45 pm
Rezone and be done. Think of innovative ways to utilize space like #66 discussed. Have the school board draw the lines. Do not allow parental input. Consultants have been hired. All you need is a map and marker along with the numbers which the district has readily available. It is time to stop fighting and talking about change. Make it a reality and rezone. Be ready for 2010. It may not make some voters happy, but guess what NOTHING will make the voters happy. My neighborhood may be on the chopping block too. And guess what, I will do whatever the district says. If it means that my daughter gets moved to a new high school, then so be it. We will make it work.
Rezone – Redraw – Renew District 5. The school board needs to take action now and put the idea of a referendum on the back burner. There is too much controversy for a yes vote unless they come up with some different options. That is a fact. Even the yes people are weary and tired after all this media hype and hoopla over something that happens everyday and something that should be personal. It is a shame that some felt it their personal mission to persecute.
By Crazy on August 17th, 2008 at 9:23 pm
Hey #65 you may be right. I think I found a recording of where Andersen stated that Murphy was driving him crazy
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FW-6A6ahISs
By yet another option on August 18th, 2008 at 12:30 am
Let’s face it Andersen is a relatively smart guy. Cole is, from what has been said in these posts, a good principal. Now there is a thread out there in the post suggesting maybe they were too good. If you read it closely it almost sounds like Andersen typing.
Maybe they were working on these options. Rezoning, addressing school population pressures, technology, pay for teachers and they were too successful and too vocal solving the problem without the need for the referendum. What if they are both completely innocent?
What if the only thing they are guilty of is working with people that opposed the bond?
What if the allegations came out of the district office in attempts to discredit their efforts?
What if we all bit into a concentrated effort by the district office to discredit the man?
Could you image the pressure Andersen’s wife must have been under. A husband working hour upon hour with a young attractive woman, and then her hearing rumors about his infidelity. So here is a man that has worked tirelessly to solve our districts problems and now his wife of years walks away with his seven children. What would you do; but sign a concession giving away property. He doesn’t admit to the allegations with is signature. Even the media in essence retracted their initial interpretation.
Let’s not come to conclusions until this thing is over. There seems to be much more to come on the matter. Do you really think he would have resigned his contract if he was guilty of infidelity with an employee? It is easy to assume he was arrogant and stupid, it is hard to believe he was set up because he was actually trying to advance the district to the next level.
By Advice on August 18th, 2008 at 1:07 am
Advise for Cole
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z3B_Dn_fBnE
By Daniel J on August 18th, 2008 at 2:08 pm
To just thinking: Since Stefanie was referencing the New Testament while spouting the “whore” word it was obvious that Stefanie did not attend Temple, worship the moon, nor dance naked with rags on poles. Regardless, I apologize to all the pole dancers who were offended by my insensitivity and I’ll be sure to throw an extra crisp two dollar bill the next time one twirls my way.
At what point did you realize Chapin didn’t have Latin or German? Perhaps if you would have done a little research BEFORE moving into the Chapin zone that would have solved your problem rather than saddling the rest of us with your re-zoning scheme so that YOUR child can learn Russian? And you say this is having an adverse effect on your child? GOOD GRIEF!!! How about making this easy on everybody and just YOU re-zone yourself to a school that offers Latin, German, and Russian?
I see very clearly where the adverse effect on your child originates.
By Rock From DE on August 18th, 2008 at 3:55 pm
To Just Thinking: I can see your problem clearly. You need to change your name to “Just Whining”. Why do wankers like you fail to see the obvious? You need to unbolt yourself from your sofa, take the superintendant off you speeddial and take a truly active interest in your kids education. It’s whiners like you that send your present and future “blame everybody but myself” loser kids to school to infect my kids with your knuckle-dragging, incest riddled cracker pedigree.
Life is pretty simple; If you want more, Give more. Stop your whining and stop expecting an already cash-strapped school system to raise your children. There is nothing wrong with our schools that better parenting won’t solve. Grow up.
By MYOB on August 18th, 2008 at 4:12 pm
You want stats?
http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?sec=health&res=950DE3DD143AF93AA35750C0A96F948260
http://www.2-in-2-1.com/marriageclinic/infidelity/affairs/
Get a life, and leave Melissa’s alone.
By Just Laughing on August 18th, 2008 at 8:20 pm
Ohh Rock you’re angry. LOL. Someone must have hit a nerve. Think think must have been closer to fact than we realized. Now the dialouge is getting good :)
By Daniel J on August 19th, 2008 at 6:33 am
YES, Rock was closing in on the facts!!
The knuckle draggers in Chapin – Don (too afraid to run for School Board) Carlson and Kim ( ran for school board but got her ass whopped) Murphy need to get a life and quit trying to re-zone everyone else in the district to appease their schemes.
Let’s have a vote: who thinks Don should re-zone himself back to Michigan and who thinks Kim should re-zone herself to a school where her precious child can be taught Russian?
By You ready for more ?- Part 2 on August 19th, 2008 at 2:54 pm
Wait a minute…it’s not just Big E and Melissa folks. How about the well-known examples of “dating” impacting D5 tax paid work time resulting in family breakups and related mayhem including (allegedly, of course), Buddy Price (chief provaceteur and minister of “public info”), Jim Shirley (who was just re-hired by D5 as a manager of principals …go figure that out), and all following the well known behavior of the not dearly departed, but certainly not forgotten, Dr. McM whose trend setting behavior, and as the Super no less, with an employee of D5 (who was moved from school to school for years)…well, let’s say the list goes on and on to keep this shorter.
Are these “leadership” examples (forget moral examples) for our middle and high school students and, getting real here, for even elementary youth who are taught values ed. in the same schools? Don’t think so my friends….My student is not stupid and neither is yours and neither are the taxpayers.
I know teachers and parents and SIC and PTSO and yes, many many students in the district over 20 years to date who cannot stand this type of behavior . Some of these folks have been victims of it. But to read some of this blog, parents should just go along to go along. And then, throw a half billion dollars ( count over 30 years of interest time) to those same employees in charge of the mayhem who are “doing it” and selling bonds using everyhting from the D5 web page to bag lunches and emails directing how teachers should vote instead of their jobs and then, when the mayhem is even publicly proven, pay the grinning offenders “transition money ” when a reporter gets hold of the court records after 6 months of destructive anti-education behavior by our Board who attempts to ridicule those who point out these gross failings.
Yes, folks, to top it off, the Board “settled” this out of your taxes ($10,000) ! Why? So the Super doesn’t have to buy a tent and live at the park ? MCole will take care of him I’m sure as soon as she gets her settlement. ( Let’s see child support for 10 kids?)
I for one, can’t wait to vote to change this rotten Board, to get a forensic audit done of exactly where the cash has been manipulated for years and then to have some REAL accountability like the rest of us. It’s time to eliminate ANYONE on staff associated with the DO “campaign staff” and other inappropriate and destructive behaviors where it has not resulted in on the job related productivity… Furthermore, D5 cannot afford to continue lining the deep pockets of so-called developers and golf buddies lining up again to hold D5 contracts ..hopefully the end is near….
………..or get ready for more.
By James on August 19th, 2008 at 3:27 pm
AMEN I SAY AMEN to Daniel J! The folks on my cul-de-sac with our 2.3 kids and 1.2 dogs and outrageously manicured lawns are sooooo fed up with the Chapin “Knuckle Draggers”. The vote wouldn’t be fair though since we all know that last time Murphy lost in a land slide and Carlson is too much of a wuss to put his name on a ballot.
I move for a new vote: Who wears the strap-on when Carlson and Murphy meet?
By Tired on August 19th, 2008 at 5:04 pm
#68, it takes two to tango. You know who the victims are? Their children, their spouses, their friends, their families, those they have let down. In their case, it includes schools and an entire district. Melissa Cole, thank you for resigning so we can move on.
By District Five on August 19th, 2008 at 5:07 pm
Parent’s Meeting. What a huge loss for District 5 to lose Melissa Cole. She is truly one of the best and brightest. Most importantly she loved her job and advocating for kids and the teachers she tried to help. Forget all the allegations, crued language, and so on. She was treated terribly by the District Office and Board. I hope she goes into education in another district and doesn’t give up on this because of the good she can do.They just wouldn’t listen in District 5.
By District Five on August 19th, 2008 at 5:27 pm
What do we need all of these district office emloyees in the district office for. Come on. Let’s reduce the budget for the District Office by 50%. Put some on them back in the schools dealing with kids – the most important issue in education. Secondly, let’s rezone and fill the schools we currently have. Then we can talk about over crowding of the schools.
By Think.think... on August 19th, 2008 at 7:01 pm
I am okay with both resignations. Though, I hope she gets a pay out as well. Anywho, yes there are victims but I am sure it is much better to find out and either move on or stay and work it out rather than not know or be in the dark. Worse yet, that the DO knows all your business before you do and uses it as a political ploy to get their way. The board. Just horrible. And even if she was or was not guilty, we really don’t know. We do know she resigned. That’s all. It should end the speculation and we should move on to getting rid of the board that creeks when you walk across. As my daddy said, pull that board up and replace it when it makes all that kind of noise. You would do it in a house, and we should do that in THIS HOUSE!
By Shocked on August 19th, 2008 at 9:01 pm
I am shocked. Daniel, Rock, James you didn’t have to write much to convince me of where my opinion falls. You are rude, disgusting and just plain mean. There is no sense in your behavior. I came here genuinely interested in the matter looking for facts to make up my mind.
1. I didn’t find any
2. I know where I stand now.
By Biology Teacher on August 19th, 2008 at 9:33 pm
Rock, don’t worry about everyone else’s kids infecting your’s. The rest of the district is human. Cross species infection is rare. But based on your responses there is little evidence that you would understand those biological processes.
By Daniel J on August 20th, 2008 at 7:30 am
Sorry to have shcoked you – quit hiding behind the “Putting Our Checkbooks First” charade and realize you’ve shown yourselves for the selfish and bitter folks you truly are.
At least Murphy had the courage to put herslef on the ballot – and while I disagree with a lot what she has done I do commend her courage. However, if German were really so important to her child then why not simply move 5 miles to the Dutch Fork zone or the Irmo zone?
Carlson on the other hand slithers in the weeds. Come on Mr. Expert in Everything, why are you afraid to put your name on the ballot?
By James on August 20th, 2008 at 3:00 pm
Shocked? Hello – you’re reading a blog – not the IrNo News.
What is with the “Putting Our Checkbooks First” group? You’ve been dishing out distortions and whacked out thought processes for years and someone comes around and torches your re-zoning scheme to ashes and all of a sudden you cry no fair no fair?
Does Carlson have a glass jaw in addition to having no balls?
Kudos to Daniel J for calling a spade a spade!
By Good ridance of Scott Andersen on August 20th, 2008 at 4:17 pm
Real Jerk. Scott Andersen must be a real jerk. Leaving his wife and kids and going after a young, talented principal. Then letting his wife name her in the divorce papers and no word from him about the allegations. Paper says he neither confirms or denies. What’s happening here. Looks like he hung her out to dry and he came out of this OK. He hasn’t been called horrible names, or worse had to defend his teaching certificate, which she has to do tomorrow morning. He got a settlement, a neutral reference and she got nothing. Hope this opens her eyes and he leaves the Southeast. Good ridance.
By GO HOME SCOTT ANDERSEN on August 20th, 2008 at 5:07 pm
BETTER YET LET’S HOPE HE AND BERNICE WORK OUT THEIR DIFFERENCES, GET BACK TOGETHER AND CO-PARENT THOSE CHILDREN. GOD WANTS FAMILIES TO STAY TOGETHER.
By Marc on August 25th, 2008 at 10:54 pm
Conversation’s interesting about Carlson and Murphy… They keep pounding away at the district. Why does this board keep shooting themselves in the foot instead of going after the guys on the inside who make them look sooo bad? Are they helpless?
By ryan on August 29th, 2008 at 5:29 pm
AUGUST 29th arrived. The Andersen divorce was to be final. What happened? Bernice apparently wanted it to since they were her allegations. We will have to wait and see?