Band director kept on staff after board replaces termination recommendation with three-day suspension and supervision

The Jacksonville North Pulaski School District board modified a recommendation to terminate band director Adrian Hernandez, approving instead a three-day suspension without pay, written documentation in his personnel file, and required supervision.

Administration introduced an investigation and video evidence showing Hernandez pulling a student from an instrument locker; administrators said the student struck his back and elbow and that the conduct presented a safety and policy violation. "In the video we were able to determine that the teacher pulled the student aggressively out of the locker, which could have caused harm," an administration presenter said while summarizing the investigation and the recommendation for termination. (Dr. Ola / administration)

Administrators and counsel pointed to the video and multiple written statements as the basis for recommending termination. District counsel asked the board to accept the recommendation, saying the conduct was not "conducive to a safe, educational environment." (Scott Richardson)

Multiple parents and character witnesses testified on Hernandez's behalf, describing long-term positive interactions with students, community contributions, and the teacher's professional involvement with regional band organizations. One witness read a letter that called Hernandez a "mild mannered professional" and urged the board to consider his years of service.

Hernandez himself acknowledged the incident and said he "messed up," described being remorseful and said he did not intend harm. He told the board he had worked long hours for students and asked for an opportunity to continue his work under supervision.

After closing statements from both sides, the board met in executive session. Upon returning, a board member moved to modify the superintendent's recommendation to a three-day suspension without pay, require written documentation in the personnel file and provide supervision going forward; the motion carried by recorded voice with one negative vote. "3 day suspension without pay, written documentation in the file of the employee, and provide supervision moving forward," the motion stated. (Board member)

Board members cited the video, the district's corporal punishment policy and the need to ensure student safety; some members said Hernandez's record and character warranted a corrective approach rather than termination. The administration's recommended termination will not be implemented; the district will document the supervisory plan and disciplinary record as directed by the board's motion.