In response to today’s earlier post regarding a lawsuit filed yesterday against the San Diego Unified School District, Board President John Lee Evans sent the following to SD Rostra…
It has come to my attention that my name was mentioned in a lawsuit by Brenda Campbell. I have not seen the complaint.
Ms. Campbell was involved in a confidential, disciplinary personnel matter, so I am not free to speak about the details of her case. Please refer to the district’s legal counsel.
The Superintendent determined that Brenda Campbell needed to be removed from her current assignment and that decision was upheld by the board when the evidence was presented. I have full confidence in our Superintendent’s integrity and ability to properly discipline and hold his staff accountable.
There is absolutely no basis to allegations that this action was tied to any matters regarding any union. As a psychologist I understand the parameters of confidentiality. I would never discuss closed session matters or how I would vote on such matters with anyone other than the Superintendent and board members and any appropriate staff, such as legal counsel. As a psychologist I have a lot of experience with the parameters of confidentiality.
In early 2012 the Board voted to legally prohibit any campaign contributions from unions, businesses, corporations or PACs. In fact, if SDEA or any other group were to send me a contribution I would have to return it to them.
It is unfortunate that in this political season that statements from a disciplined employee or anyone else would be made that are based on Internet conspiracy theories. I trust that journalists will not spread allegations that have no basis in fact.
The lawsuit is a matter of record. Rostra‘s Greg Larkin did not opine on the allegations in the lawsuit, he reported on them, noting them as part of the filed complaint as just that — allegations. He also requested comments from various individuals, including Mr. Evans. Rostra thanks Board President Evans for responding with his comments, which are posted here in their entirety.