The diocese revoked the affiliation because the school’s board of trustees includes some of St. Paul’s major financial backers who have influence in the school’s direction.
The switch to what the diocese calls a patron-controlled model “disregards generally accepted practices for a school of this kind.”
Ten of 17 board members resigned over the issue, including Craig Anderson, bishop and representative of the diocese, and Jonathan Weldon, priest-in-charge of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church.
“Because this new direction is inconsistent with the identity, heritage and core values of the current school and because opposing the financial backers presents unacceptable financial risks to the school, we must resign our trusteeship,” stated a resignation letter signed by all 10 members.
Sadler disagrees with their view, saying the board will still be independent and include parent and teacher representatives, as well as others. There will be a change to the board’s bylaws, however, removing the bishop designee and priest.
[i] Off topic comment deleted by elf. [/i]
(Do I have to pay Sarah royalties for the “Wow, simply wow” line?)
Summary: Couldn’t get loans. Raised money from major donors for the new building. Major donors are church members and board members. Bishop feels this is a conflict of interest because contributing board members could have influence over the school’s direction.
Is the school’s “direction” to the right? Is that the concern?