Scrutinized Cook Co. Regional Office of Education closed

A few months after its Westchester office was raided by authorities, the new Broadview location of the Suburban Cook County Regional Office of Education has been closed until further notice.

The closure was initiated by the village of Broadview, said Illinois State Board of Education spokeswoman Mary Fergus, who said she believed there was a problem with the office's business license. Broadview officials couldn't be reached for comment.

The new location opened on Nov. 2. According to the Nov. 10 posting on the office's Web site, the office was experiencing technical difficulties due to the relocation. The indefinite closing occurred three days later.

The office, which has racked up $1 million in debt according to a state audit, helps teachers and bus drivers get required certificates.

In July, the Cook County State's Attorney's office filed suit against the office and its head, Superintendent Charles Flowers, to get back a $190,000 loan from the county to the office. Authorities said Flowers defrauded the county because he knew the office couldn't repay the loan and that he spent the agency funds for personal use.

State's Attorney's spokesman Andy Conklin said the lawsuit is still pending. While no criminal charges have been filed, an investigation is ongoing, he said. The State Teacher Certification Board is also seeking to revoke Flowers' teaching and administrative certificates. A hearing is expected to take place in January.

Since the allegations came to light, regional offices of education in neighboring counties have stepped up to offer their services. Teachers can also go to the State Board of Education office for services.

Flowers did not return messages seeking comment last July or Tuesday.