We received a new memo from Christopher Ice dated January 11, 2026 regarding lead tutor contracts. In writing, he states: “We have heard your concerns and have made the decision you may continue with the current contracts if you choose.” He also confirms that anyone who signed the revised contract can return to the prior one, stating: “If you would like to return to your previous contract… you will need to confirm your desire to return to the previous contract.”
This is a clear step in the right direction, however we are deeply disappointed by the way this reversal is being framed. The memo attempts to portray this as a simple timing or discernment issue, stating that the letter “did not allow enough time” to review a “potential revision to your contract mid-year.” That is not how the revised contracts and surrounding communications was experienced by the tutors. The memo itself confirms there was an “announcing this change” letter and that it was, in fact, a contract revision mid-year.
In short: we welcome the outcome, but we reject the spin.
It was never said that these new agreements were voluntary. Mr. Ice made it very clear in his initial memo that these new contracts were compulsory and backpedaled once he received professional legal advice.
The process that led to this point has damaged trust in executive leadership and board oversight. A decision this serious should never be rolled out mid-year without verified financial transparency. A mission-driven Catholic organization owes its tutors and families more than last-minute reversals and carefully worded memos after the fact.
Important: the memo also signals continued pressure. It states, “we are asking you to limit the number of hours worked at home” and that administrators will “closely monitor the number of hours worked at home,” with more details forthcoming from HR. Any “limit” must be clearly defined in writing and must match the workload expectations and compensation terms in existing agreements. Tutors should not be placed in a position where required work is silently shifted into unpaid labor.
What tutors should do now: Save this memo. Do not sign anything new. If you signed the revised agreement and want to return to your original contract, follow the HR link referenced in the memo to confirm your choice. Continue using the existing timekeeping procedure and document all work performed. Do not work off the clock. If any administrator gives instructions that conflict with your written agreement, request clarification in writing and preserve it.
We consider this a victory, but we have not regained confidence in leadership. The petition’s broader concerns remain: transparency, governance, and accountability. We will continue calling for meaningful executive restructuring and leadership changes including the removal of Mr. Ice to restore integrity and prevent this from happening again.
If you have additional questions you want included in our unified list for HR, please email: jamesbakercharles@gmail.com.
God Bless,
Charles Baker
Sancta Maria, ora pro nobis!