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Patrons deliver ethics grievance and raise concerns about board culture at Medford School Board meeting
Summary
Multiple patrons addressed the board Dec. 19: Paul Cynar of the MEA filed grievances, Kari Hensen submitted a written Oregon Government Ethics Commission grievance in compliance with HB 2805, and other speakers criticized board conduct while one patron expressed support for the superintendent.
Several patrons used the board's public comment period Dec. 19 to raise concerns about board conduct, file grievances and voice support for district leadership. Paul Cynar, identified in the meeting record as MEA Grievance Chair, spoke about multiple grievances and offered detailed examples. Teacher Kari Hensen completed Cynar's comments and—according to the record—said the statement would serve as an official written Oregon Government Ethics Commission grievance submitted in compliance with HB 2805. Penny Blaisdell, recorded as a patron, said she was disappointed with local media coverage of recent board events and voiced support for Superintendent Bret Champion.
Speakers during public comment raised themes about trust, safety and an "unhealthy culture" in the district; Lisa North, recorded as a teacher, said she was dissatisfied with lack of coherency, trust and safety. The record shows Chair Cynthia Wright acknowledged receipt of a written comment from Taryne Saunders and thanked those who spoke. The board did not take immediate action on the grievances during the meeting; the grievances and any required responses will proceed through the stated ethics and grievance processes.
