Mystery Shrouds Carpinteria Unified Conflict

Just about everybody paying attention to the recent dustup at the Carpinteria Unified School District is waiting for the Board of Education to provide details about a separation agreement struck between the five boardmembers and Micheline Miglis, who abruptly left her post as superintendent on August 22, the day before the first day of school. Dozens of Miglis’s supporters ​— ​some of them in tears ​— ​packed the meeting announcing her departure.

“Miglis and the district jointly drafted a separation agreement that has a confidentiality clause,” said board president Andrew Sheaffer. “There is really nothing more I can say other than this was a difficult but unanimous decision by the board.” Meanwhile, concerned parents, teachers, and administrators remain confused. “We just want to know what happened,” said Maureen Foley, one of three candidates vying for two board seats up for grabs this fall. Public Information Officer Kelly Hoover with the Sheriff’s Office said that Miglis isn’t under investigation. Queries urging the board to provide examples of Miglis underperforming or for failing to follow procedural channels have been rebuffed. “It’s a personnel matter,” Schaeffer said.

“I’ve been constantly grateful to work with extremely talented faculty and staff, and I’ve felt overwhelmingly privileged to interact with the families and the community of Carpinteria,” Miglis said. “I am grateful beyond words for the tremendous support.” The board hired Miglis after a $12,555 search conducted by a private consulting firm. Her first day was July 8, 2015, and her annual salary, including benefits, was $177,160. Former Santa Barbara Unified School District superintendent Brian Sarvis is serving until Miglis’s permanent replacement can be found.