Investigation Reveals Evidence Contradicting Superintendent’s Statements In Student Bullying Case
The Poway Unified School District board’s decision to fire superintendent Marian Kim Phelps followed an investigation that uncovered evidence contradicting her statements regarding allegations of bullying and harassment of high school softball team members. The board voted unanimously to dismiss Phelps during a closed-door meeting on Tuesday.
Board President Michelle O’Connor-Ratcliff read a statement saying the board “has lost all confidence and trust in Dr. Phelps’ ability to continue to serve as superintendent.” The investigation which began on Nov. 15 and concluded on April 18 “brought to light previous unknown evidence with witnesses with direct first-hand knowledge that contradicted Dr. Phelps’ statements and assertions to the board district staff and the public,” according to the board’s statement.
California superintendent fired after allegedly threatening to punish students who didn’t clap for her daughter https://t.co/dBte12uQHo pic.twitter.com/Yc8YGv2ZDI
— New York Post (@nypost) May 4, 2024
Players coaches and parents allege that Phelps bullied and harassed members of the softball team at Del Norte High School a district campus during an after-season team banquet on May 30, 2023. Phelps players alleged was upset that her daughter who was named team MVP that evening did not receive applause from her teammates Phelps deemed adequate.
The perceived slight players alleged prompted Phelps to launch an investigation and threaten to bar seniors from participating in their graduation ceremonies. An unnamed minor student sued Phelps the high school school district and the board in San Diego County Superior Court alleging intentional and negligent infliction of emotional distress negligence in properly training district employees and a violation of her 1st Amendment rights.
The board declined to comment further or provide additional information regarding the investigation since minors were involved.