Derrick Thomas Academy loses its UMKC charter

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Low test scores and poorly-managed finances have created an uncertain future at Derrick Thomas Academy. The charter school's sponsor, UMKC, will need to decide whether to renew a contract or close the school at the end of the 2013 school …
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Posted: 11/20/2012

By: 41 Action News Staff

KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The University of Missouri-Kansas City is ending its sponsorship of the Derrick Thomas Academy.

The decision was made in a meeting closed to the public Tuesday night.

According to DTA staff, the current school's administrators are out. They said UMKC is bringing in a new administration to try and improve the school. However, a consultant with UMKC said the staff resigned on their own.

A 41 Action News investigation this summer revealed DTA was suffering from low academic scores, financial problems and a failure to meet the needs of special education students.

RELATED | Will low test scores, shaky financial situation spell the end for Derrick Thomas Academy? http://bit.ly/NDdfwN

Following the investigation, UMKC threatened this school year could be the Academy's last if it didn't improve conditions. In a letter to the school, university officials said the Academy had violated Missouri charter school laws by breaking a contract with its management company without UMKC's approval.

"UMKC's goal and the transition team school will be to provide a stable environment because at the end of the day that's our job," said Dana Cutler/UMKC Legal Council for Charter Center.

Stay with KSHB.com for updates.