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An Unfolding Investigation into Dohn Community High School
CINCINNATI — A significant investigation has been launched into Dohn Community High School, raising serious questions about its financial management and operational integrity. The Ohio Auditor's office is delving deep into the school's connection with various contractors, particularly focusing on former Superintendent Leando “Ramone” Davenport and Jonathan “Larry” Ballew, the founder of two companies that provided crucial services to the school.
The Story Behind the Closure
The abrupt closure of Dohn on March 31 took many by surprise. With over $1.8 million in liabilities, including loans and unpaid payroll taxes, the school that aimed to support at-risk students has left approximately 600 students searching for alternative education options. Established in 1999 to promote “dropout recovery,” Dohn had created personalized learning environments to help individuals over the age of 16 earn their high school diplomas.
Allegations of Financial Mismanagement
Documents obtained by the WCPO 9 I-Team reveal a troubling loan of $500,000 given to Davenport by Ballew’s companies, which had already received over $2 million in payments from Dohn since 2021. This financial entanglement is at the heart of the allegations, leading community members to question the ethics behind the management of the school’s funds.
Community Perspectives on the Investigation
In light of these revelations, Carol Burris, the executive director of the Network for Public Education, has emphasized the need for more stringent charter school regulations in Ohio. Burris pointed out that such issues could rarely arise in traditional public-school districts, highlighting the need for accountability in the charter system. She stated, “Ohio has very loose charter laws that are an invitation to grift and to fraud.”
The Impact on Students and Families
As a school famously known for offering second chances, the consequences of Dohn’s closure have rippled through the community. Parents are now faced with the daunting task of enrolling their children in new schools while ensuring continuity in their educational journeys. Cincinnati Public Schools have stepped in, attempting to accommodate those displaced by the closure.
Future Implications and Calls for Change
As the investigation progresses, the wider implications of this case may lead to significant changes in how charter schools are regulated and monitored in Ohio. Many advocates for public education are urging for stricter guidelines to prevent such occurrences from happening in the future.
Conclusion: A Call for Accountability
The unfolding situation at Dohn Community High School serves as a wake-up call for both educators and policymakers. As more details emerge, it reaffirms the importance of transparency and accountability in educational institutions. Community members along with educational advocates are calling for reforms not only for the sake of protecting students but also for nurturing trust in educational systems.
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