The Liberty Elementary School District Governing Board voted 4-1 on Monday to publicly release an investigation report and impose restrictions on Board Member Kellie Zimmerman after an independent probe found that she had repeatedly violated board operating standards and created a toxic work environment, although the conduct did not meet the legal definition of harassment.
The investigation, led by attorney James Ledbetter and released July 14, concluded Zimmerman “serially humiliates” district employees and treats them with “a level of contempt that has bred a toxic work environment.” The probe investigated an allegation that Zimmerman’s behavior was racially motivated. Ledbetter, however, wrote that there was not enough evidence to prove the mistreatment was tied to race or any other protected status.
“The vast majority of school board members are dedicated public servants, doing a difficult job for no compensation,” Ledbetter wrote. “Like all elected officials, there are some who abuse their power. Without question, Respondent serially humiliates district employees, treating them with a level of contempt that has bred a toxic work environment.”
The five-page report found Zimmerman repeatedly ignored the district’s signed operating standards requiring civility and respect during meetings and noted that if an employee acted similarly, they “would reasonably anticipate termination.”
Under the board’s new directives, Zimmerman is barred from contacting district staff or legal counsel directly and must communicate through the board president. All staff communications with board members must now go through the superintendent. Zimmerman must also complete in-person sensitivity training, which will be added to an upcoming board retreat, and issue a public apology. The board president will also issue an apology on behalf of the board.
Board members also voted to send the report to the Maricopa County superintendent, the State Superintendent of Public Instruction and the Arizona Department of Education. Zimmerman cast the lone “no” vote, saying she believes she should still be allowed to email the superintendent directly.
The investigation began in April after a complaint was filed, withdrawn, and then reinstated following further interactions with Zimmerman. Ledbetter interviewed Zimmerman, the complainant, three other board members, and 10 current and former district employees as part of the inquiry.
A copy of the complaint can be found here.
One Response
5 minutes of observation at a school board meeting with Zimmerman, and you know this “attitude” adjustment is MORE than warranted. Excellent move!