Custodian tells board he faced harassment on the job and asks for clear reporting guidance

During public input at the May 19 Madison Metropolitan School District board meeting, Darius Carter, a custodian who said he has worked for MMSD for nearly nine years (seven at East High School), described repeated workplace harassment and what he characterized as inadequate management responses.

Carter said he had raised concerns about being singled out in workplace inspections, denied overtime and accused by a coworker of threatening language; Carter said management closed an investigation he initiated and that the harassment continued until the coworker retired. He also referenced a prior building-services matter that resulted in a $545,000 settlement with families and said he is seeking clear guidance from the board on how to report harassment and obtain assistance.

The board did not take formal action on Carter’s comments during the meeting; public comments are on the record and, as Carter asked, he sought direction and clarity about how custodial staff should report harassment and receive support. Carter said he wished to understand “the correct way to report… and get assistance when I am being harassed.”

Ending: Carter’s remarks were part of the public-comment period. Board members thanked all public speakers; administration did not announce a formal follow-up on the custodial complaint during the meeting. Carter’s statements are archived in the meeting minutes and form a public record for any follow-up inquiries by the board or district staff.