Trustee seeks independent probe after months of special education complaints; board defers until new superintendent starts

Trustee Napier urged the Tehachapi Unified School District Board of Trustees on June 24 to direct an independent investigation into repeated complaints about the district’s special education office, but the board did not act and the matter will be forwarded to the new superintendent when he begins July 1.

Napier said she submitted a written request under board bylaw 9322 to add a closed-session item so the board could consider directing the superintendent to retain an independent investigator. "As board members, we have an ethical duty to ensure that such allegations are investigated thoroughly, objectively, and independently," Napier said during board communications.

The request came after several public commenters described alleged legal noncompliance and poor treatment of families by the special education director. Parent Candi DeVoe told trustees, "He is a bully. He bullies special needs parents," and asked the board to remove the director from the role. Jenny Jolly, another parent, said her son was "wrongfully arrested on May 7" following a classroom incident and criticized district handling and records access.

Napier said she asked that, if added to an agenda, the item include focused public comment, a staff presentation on procedures, time for board questions, and identification of follow-up steps such as policy or training changes. She told the board the request was withheld until the new superintendent's start date because of the leadership transition, and said she will forward the request on July 1 and continue to advocate for a "fair and full review."

Board President Kaminski acknowledged the timing constraints tied to the superintendent transition. No motion was made and no formal board action occurred on the investigation request at the June 24 meeting.

Public commenters asked for prompt attention. Rhianna Schultz called the situation "disgusting" and urged a special meeting as soon as Brown Act notice requirements allow, saying she was concerned about legal liability and a lack of district communications with affected families.

The district did not announce a timeline or investigative vendor. Trustees said publicly that the matter would be taken up after the incoming superintendent, Brian Bell, assumes duties July 1.

What happens next: The trustee's request and related public comments will be sent to Superintendent Brian Bell on his first day. The board indicated it expects the incoming superintendent to review the materials and determine whether to present an agenda item for board direction or to pursue an independent investigation.