Former teacher urges independent investigation into alleged retaliation at Burke County middle school

During the public‑participation portion of the meeting, Frederick Lewis Jr. identified himself as a former Burke County staff member and urged the board to investigate what he described as a ‘‘toxic environment’’ at the middle school level.

Lewis said multiple certified teachers have resigned amid alleged retaliation, discriminatory treatment and inaccurate evaluations tied to complaints about leadership and human resources. He said he was placed on administrative leave, his contract was not renewed and that he faced retaliatory treatment after reporting misconduct. He asked the board to reinstate him to finish the school year and to open an independent investigation into hiring, firing and evaluation processes at the middle school.

“I'm asking that the board look into what is happening behind closed doors at middle school,” Lewis said, summarizing allegations of favoritism, retaliation and a workplace climate that he said drives experienced teachers away. He also said he had been told by HR, in his telling, that the district had ‘‘plenty of teachers’’ and did not prioritize retention.

Board members and the superintendent responded that personnel matters are private and appropriate for closed session. The chair and superintendent said they had information on the matter and would discuss it in executive session; the chair asked Lewis to send supporting materials to board members via email and the superintendent referenced reviewing a relevant recording in closed session.

The board did not announce any independent investigation during the open meeting; rather, the item was referred to closed session for personnel‑related review and follow up.

What to watch: the board’s closed‑session action and any subsequent public report or formal investigation request will determine whether independent review will occur and what remedies, if any, are pursued.