Teachers share fear of questioning school boards

Arrin Newton Brunson:

A grass-roots group, Parents for Positive Change, invited the two lawyers after controversies erupted in the Logan School District earlier this year, leading to the resignation of a popular principal and the early retirement of an embattled superintendent.

Many of the complaints centered on the rights of teachers to complain without fear of retribution.

McCoy assured teachers that challenging school officials on issues of public concern is protected speech. "You do have substantial rights," he said.

State law prohibits retaliation against teachers who speak out about practices or policies they perceive as detrimental to students, McCoy said. Punishments such as the loss of salary, prestige and job opportunities are illegal, he said.

Posted by Jim Zellmer at April 24, 2006 8:12 AM
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