State officials table closing of La Promesa

Delay agreed upon until release of 2016 audit planned in a few weeks

The New Mexico Public Education Commission on Friday morning voted to table a discussion about revoking La Promesa Early Learning Center’s charter until the most recent audit is publicly available.

Nine commissioners supported the delay, with one abstaining.

La Promesa executive director Chris Jones argued that the proceedings were unfair because the school couldn’t address the state auditor’s fiscal year 2016 audit, which has not been released. In addition, Jones said he only heard about the possible revocation on Monday night, giving him minimal time to organize a defense.

“I am a little discouraged about the process by which we were brought in front of the commission today,” Jones told the Journal.

Earlier this week, the state Public Education Department recommended closure of the charter school founded by embattled former Albuquerque Public Schools Board member Analee Maestas, who is facing fraud allegations. Launched in 2005, La Promesa focuses on dual-language education, and currently enrolls 387 students in kindergarten through eighth grades.

Katie Poulos, PED’s charter school expert, told the commission that she recommends closure because there is evidence the school has continuing problems with fiscal mismanagement.

PED took control of La Promesa’s finances in August and found a variety of irregularities, including lack of evidence for goods received and cash disbursements to management without supporting documentation. The investigation was triggered by state Auditor Tim Keller’s determination that Maestas doctored a $340 receipt to receive reimbursement for cleaning that took place at her home, not the school.

While the fiscal year 2016 audit has not been released, Poulos said “initial discussions with the auditor have indicated that there are serious concerns.”

But Jones stressed that La Promesa has gotten back on track.

Maestas resigned in September, and the school made several other personnel changes, such as retaining an experienced business manager and electing a new Governance Council president.

La Promesa has adhered to a PED improvement plan, and Jones said administrators seemed satisfied with current operations.

He acknowledged that the school has struggled with academics, dropping from a C to an F grade, but said teachers are working hard to improve scores.

According to La Promesa’s most recent grade report, 7 percent of students are proficient in reading and 10 percent in math.

A group of supportive parents and staff who attended Friday’s meeting said the school’s students are happy and engaged.

Francisco Gonzalez became emotional when he talked about his son’s positive experiences in second grade.

“I hope good judgment will prevail, and the school can continue educating our children,” Gonzalez said.

PTA president Brenda Baca’s 7-year-old granddaughter has also enjoyed attending second grade at La Promesa.

The school offers strong afterschool activities and a feeling of community, Baca said. She hopes Jones can mount a strong defense when the commissioners consider revocation again.

The fiscal year 2016 audit will be released in the next few weeks, according to the Office of the State Auditor.

In a prepared statement, PED spokesman Robert McEntyre said charter schools should be held to high academic and financial standards.