All five board members felt there was enough evidence in the investigation to terminate the superintendent
After receiving preliminary information from an investigation into the professional conduct of Superintendent Mike Merlino, the Evergreen School Board of Directors voted 4-1 to terminate him using the “no cause” provision of his contract during a special Board meeting, today, Thu., Dec. 16.
In voting “yea,” Board members Julie Bocanegra, Victoria Bradford, Ginny Gronwoldt and Rob Perkins all acknowledged that there was enough evidence in the investigation to terminate “for cause” but that could ultimately cost the district more through legal expenses, as well as continuing to pay Merlino’s administrative leave costs, until there was a settlement. Terminating for “no cause” and paying Merlino one year of salary, also prevented a lengthy litigation, and put an immediate “hard stop” on the human cost, allowing the district and its employees to move forward to best serve students.
In voting “nay,” Board member Rachael Rogers said she fully supported Merlino’s immediate termination, but would have rather terminated him “for cause” in light of Merlino’s egregious behavior uncovered during the preliminary investigation.
The Board is now moving forward to secure an interim superintendent who will continue to move the educational priorities of the district forward.
Information provided by Evergreen School District.