Cairo Association of Teachers - Newsletter

CAT Tracks for September 19, 2008 CONGRATULATIONS, LORENZO

Heard some more news out of last night's BOE meeting...possible motivation for the "whispering campaign".

Following the closed session and AFTER the departure of the CATs...the Board of Education voted to agree to a settlement that would make Lorenzo Nelson "whole" in his legal dispute with the District.

(Whenever I think of the Cairo School District and the battles it picks with its employees, I'm reminded of a line from an old song..."I fought the law and the law won." It's a shame the District can't find a legal firm that would represent it on a "contingency basis"...where the lawyers get a fixed share of the settlement. With the Distric's record, they would NEVER have to pay the lawyers! To paraphrase another old song..."Nothing of nothing leaves nothing.")

Anyway, back to Lorenzo...

Under the terms of the settlement, Lorenzo will receive $14,907.32 PLUS...yes, I said PLUS...7% interest!

It's my understanding that there are still some outstanding issues, but HOPEFULLY one of the District's long-drawn-out battles with an employee is about over.

BUT...just think of the legal fees the District racked up...in addition to having to pay Lorenzo what was rightfully his!

As one who has "been there, done that", let me tell you that Lorenzo went through hell and deserves the admiration and appreciation of ALL. Such battles take an emotional and physical toll on a person...while weathering the financial strain that the District applies to try to break you. The District hopes to wear a person down...hoping they give up the fight...or die fighting.

Thank you, Lorenzo!

Hopefully, they will now leave you alone and let you get on with your life...