Escamilla discusses allegations against Nate Turner during San Marino inquiry

In a recent San Marino Unified School District Board of Education meeting, significant discussions emerged surrounding the employment status and past conduct of former employee Nate Turner. The meeting, held on March 18, 2025, focused on testimonies related to allegations against Turner, who has been a controversial figure within the district.

One of the key topics was the nature of the accusations against Turner, which included claims of past gang involvement and drug sales, as referenced in a 1999 newspaper article. The discussions highlighted the complexities of verifying such claims, with witnesses expressing uncertainty about the accuracy of the information presented. A board member questioned whether the allegations were based on factual evidence or merely hearsay, emphasizing the importance of substantiating claims before drawing conclusions.

The meeting also addressed Turner's employment status. It was confirmed that he was no longer employed by the San Marino Unified School District, although the reasons for his departure were unclear. Some testimonies suggested that Turner had left for another job, while others indicated he may have been terminated. The ambiguity surrounding his employment status raised concerns about the district's handling of personnel matters and the communication of such decisions.

Additionally, the board discussed a letter dated August 29, which was presented as part of the ongoing investigation into Turner's conduct. This letter indicated that employees could file complaints regarding Turner through the human resources department, reinforcing the district's protocol for addressing workplace issues. However, there was confusion about whether any threats had been made against employees, as the letters reviewed did not explicitly mention threats from Turner.

The meeting underscored the challenges faced by the San Marino Unified School District in navigating allegations of misconduct while ensuring due process for all parties involved. As the board continues to review the evidence and testimonies, the implications of these discussions may have lasting effects on district policies and employee relations. The next steps will likely involve further investigation into the claims against Turner and a reassessment of the district's procedures for handling such sensitive matters.