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Board upholds superintendent’s level‑two grievance decision after employee appeal
Summary
An employee appealed a level‑two grievance alleging conflict of interest and procedural violations by the superintendent; the superintendent defended the process and the board voted to uphold his decision after discussion.
An unnamed district employee appealed a level‑two grievance to the Somerton Elementary District governing board on Nov. 12, alleging bias, procedural violations and a conflict of interest involving Superintendent Omar Duron and a Summerton Middle School principal.
The employee said the appeal cited ASBA model policies and several Arizona Revised Statutes and argued the superintendent failed to recuse himself and did not properly address alleged violations. The employee stated the appeal raised concerns about fairness, impartiality and retaliation and asserted whistleblower protections.
Superintendent Duron responded that the district had followed its policies and procedures, had investigated concerns at each grievance level, and found no evidence of a conflict of interest or lack of impartiality. “I followed district policies and procedures in addressing her complaint,” Duron said, and the district recommended the governing board affirm the superintendent’s level‑two response and determination.
Board members said they appreciated the employee bringing the matter forward and noted this was the first grievance of this type they had taken through to the board. After brief discussion, a motion to uphold the superintendent’s decision was made, seconded and carried with those present voting in favor.
The transcript records that the board’s action was to uphold the superintendent’s level‑two determination; the record does not include further remedial actions ordered by the board or a detailed explanation of the investigative file in open session. The board then adjourned.
