Bend‑LaPine board upholds district decision in Mary Russell grievance after executive session

The Bend‑LaPine Administrative SD 1 Board of Directors on Dec. 9 heard a level‑4 grievance from employee Mary Russell alleging the district sent her home on Aug. 26, placed her on leave and involuntarily transferred her in violation of multiple provisions of the collective bargaining agreement and federal disability protections. After hearing presentations from the grievant and district, and meeting in executive session, the board voted unanimously to uphold the district’s level‑3 decision.

The grievance representative, Brian Hanson, told the board that Russell reported for work on Aug. 26 and was sent home despite a medical note the association says affirmed her ability to perform a 6.5‑hour shift at Rosalind Elementary. Hanson said the district’s actions forced Russell onto leave and caused "financial and professional harm," and he requested reinstatement to Russell’s regular position, back pay (including sick days and PLO adjustments), written clarification of how the district interprets medical notes,…