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Board approves superintendent contract amid public outcry over handling of misconduct allegations
Summary
After extended public comment alleging the district failed to follow reporting protocols in a teacher misconduct matter, the Naperville District 203 board voted to renew Superintendent Dan Bridges' employment agreement. The vote passed by a board majority despite vocal opposition from several parents and one board member.
The Naperville Community Unit School District 203 Board of Education voted to approve an employment agreement for Superintendent Dan Bridges after extended public comment and a lengthy board debate.
Opponents at the meeting urged trustees to delay or reject a contract extension until investigations and reporting questions were resolved. A string of public commenters alleged that district investigations into an elementary teacher "did not follow protocol" and argued that leadership failed to notify child-protection authorities. One public commenter summarized the concern as a failure to protect students and urged the board: "Please don't extend his contract." (Public commenter, America's Future). The board also heard testimony questioning the transparency of the superintendent-evaluation process and whether performance goals had been met.
Board members who supported renewal said they based their votes on district-wide performance measures and a long record of leadership. In explaining his decision to vote for renewal, one board member said the superintendent has led investments that helped the district close pandemic-era learning gaps and expand career pathways and supports for students.
The motion to approve the superintendent employment agreement was made and seconded in open session and passed on roll call (majority aye). After the vote, Superintendent Dan Bridges addressed the room: "I hear you. I understand your concerns, and it'll be my mission and my job to work hard to rebuild or build trust that you deserve in the leadership in the school district." (Dan Bridges, Superintendent).
