Democratic legislator praises GOP auditor for quick review of St. Louis schools

(The Center Square) – Missouri Republican Auditor Scott Fitzpatrick had St. Louis Public Schools on his list for this year and a Democratic state representative affirmed immediate examination.

Rep. Donna Barringer, whose district covers the western portion of the City of St. Louis, stood beside Fitzpatrick on Thursday as he announced an audit of the school district. Fitzpatrick said Barringer was the first official to request an audit by his office. He acknowledged St. Louis Democratic Mayor Tishaura Jones requested an audit along with many others, compelling him to start the audit next week.

Late last month, one year after hiring Keisha Scarlett as superintendent, the school board placed her on temporary leave . The district faces a projected $35 million budget deficit after having a $17 million surplus.

Several media outlets reported questionable contracts and hiring by Scarlett. The district’s bus company terminated its contract with the district before the end of the school year and plans are being made to provide transportation of students with a wide range of vendors.

“When this came out, it put our city 20 years backwards,” Barringer said. “And so we're going to have to work very diligently and I appreciate the auditor for what he's doing. This situation has put our city backwards and we've got to fix this. This is not OK and taxpayers are very upset.”

Barringer said the city’s population is declining primarily due to crime and its schools. Reports of the district's financial mismanagement left her with many questions.

“I have some fantastic public schools in my district,” said Barringer, formerly a city alderman and an executive director of a community improvement organization. “But they all have lead windows, except for one. Why didn't the money go into fixing the schools for the health of the children? Why didn't the money go in to raise the pay of teachers? Why didn't the money go into transportation?”

The school district audit comes as the city prosecuting attorney is being audited by Fitzpatrick. The state also is moving its offices from the city to St. Louis County.

“I love St. Louis,” Fitzpatrick said. “We’re here for the people of St. Louis and we’ll continue to be wherever needed – the school district or the justice center. St. Louis is one of the economic engines in the region and the biggest in the state. We want to make sure we’re doing everything we can in the state auditor’s office to help them find their way through the challenges they’ve experienced.”

Barringer expressed appreciation for Fitzpatrick’s swift response to her request for the audit.

“This is not a time where we have time to spare,” said Barringer, in her final months of her fourth and final term in the House. “We have got to focus on what's in the best interest of the children and the citizens.”