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Employees react to MPS temporarily hiring former athletics commissioner

Employees react to MPS temporarily hiring former athletics commissioner

MILWAUKEE, Wis. — Two familiar faces are returning to the Milwaukee Public Schools interscholastic athletics office.

On Tuesday, we told you about the temporary rehiring of former athletics commissioner Bill Maulbeck. Now we’ve learned that Margaret Barrett, who used to work in the leisure industry, is also returning.

This comes after current commissioner Bobby Kelsey came under scrutiny for failing to file paperwork for high school football teams and not paying employees on time.

“I was glad to hear that, but at the same time I wasn’t happy because he’s only coming back part-time,” Curtis Radish said.

Two weeks ago we introduced you to Rediske. He is an MPS official and is awaiting payment from the district for several games he has officiated this season.

“You still haven’t received your salary for September 5th?” asked reporter Jenna Rae.

“September 5, October 4, October 2, October 15, October 17. I’m six salaries short of my assignments,” he replied.

Watch: Employees react as MPS temporarily rehires former athletics commissioner

Employees react to MPS temporarily hiring former athletics commissioner

We previously showed you emails between the referees and the current sports commissioner. In these emails, Kelsey apologized for the late paycheck and said that a new manager had taken over payroll.

Rediske said such problems did not arise under Molbek’s leadership.

“When he left, a lot of things came to the forefront and we realized how much he had done and how valuable he was to MPS athletics. I think it’s good that he’s coming back to help us and clean up the mess,” one said. said the coach.

We spoke with several MPS coaches and even some administrators. They all wished to remain anonymous.

Here are some of the messages we received in response to Molbek’s hiring:

“I think this is a great move by the county. As far as I can tell, he did a good job.”

“Bill Maulbeck is one of the most competent and knowledgeable people I have ever worked with. This will bring stability to the Interscholastic Athletics Department.”

“Bill Maulbeck is the epitome of exceptional leadership! As a former Milwaukee Public Schools athlete and coach, I witnessed first-hand his unwavering dedication, integrity and passion for education and athletics.”

“MPS coaches of all sports have been begging to have their voices heard over the past several years under the leadership of Bobby Kelsey. Bringing in new leadership, proven leadership helps build confidence in MPS athletics and the district as a whole.”

“I hope and believe that Bill will clean up the many messes that have occurred, put out the many fires that have occurred, and restore the relationships that have been lost since he left.”

The employees we spoke with said they wanted stability and responsibility.

“I think it shows some accountability and that they are moving forward in some way,” the coach reiterated.

“Are you hoping that Bill’s return to work will change the situation?” – Ray asked Radish.

“I would hope so, but if he doesn’t stay, the likelihood that after he leaves everything will go back to the way it is now is very high,” Rediske replied.

Maulbeck and Barrett are expected to be confirmed at Thursday’s school board meeting. Documents show they will work for the athletics department until April next year.


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