DPS school board plans to sue the state, reinstate teachers
In its first meeting since regaining some authority, the Detroit Board of Education voted Thursday evening to sue the state, shake up the district's organizational chart and ensure that teachers get school assignments soon.
The suit seeks to replace more than $200 million in deficits that accrued during the first five years of state takeover of the school district, from 1999 to 2005. The district took out a loan in 2005 to cover the deficit. Voters approved a ballot measure in 2007 to pursue legal action, but the board never pursued it.
The board terminated a contract with Steve Wasko, the district's spokesman, as well as with the Detroit Parent Network, saying each has promoted the state district that competes with Detroit Public Schools for students.
It also voted to reassert authority over the nine schools that are