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A public hearing is scheduled for today (January 20) at Nottingham High School in Syracuse to discuss the future of Cherylene "Twiggy" Billue, a commissioner on the Syracuse City School Board. The hearing, which begins at 4:30 p.m., will address allegations of misconduct against Billue, though the specific charges have not been publicly disclosed. Billue will have the opportunity to defend herself during the proceedings.
The Syracuse City School Board unanimously voted to hold this hearing, with two members absent during the vote. Board President Tamica Barnett confirmed that Billue received a formal notice of the hearing, as required 10 days in advance. If the board decides to remove Billue, she will have 30 days to appeal to the state education commissioner. In the event of her removal, Mayor Sharon Owens will appoint a replacement until the next election.
Supporters of Billue have criticized the board's handling of the situation, citing issues of transparency and accountability. Walt Dixie, a South Side activist, stated, "Syracuse is watching your decisions." The school board has not made the charges against Billue public, and Billue has expressed that she believes the board should release them.
Billue's allies suggest that the effort to remove her may stem from her interactions with a principal and teacher at her grandson’s school, where she advocated for his safety against bullying. An investigation into Billue began in October following a formal complaint by the Syracuse teachers union regarding her entering a school building.
The outcome of today's hearing will determine whether Billue continues in her role or if a new commissioner will be appointed.