An investigation is underway into alleged policy violations involving the Western Community Unit School District 12 Board of Education.
According to River County News, the investigation was requested by the Western Education Association last month following a grievance alleging the district failed to enforce its own policies regarding school board member James Broeckling and his family. Broeckling is a 12-year member of the school board.
The allegations include claims that Broeckling’s children bullied or intimidated students and staff, that his wife was found in an employee’s classroom and behind the employee’s desk, and that confidential information discussed between the district and teachers’ union was improperly disclosed. Allegations say that the alleged harassment has caused people to pull their children from the school district and resign employment.
The district’s superintendent, Darrin Powell, said efforts had been made to resolve the situation, but the problems persisted.
The school board voted August 19 to censure Broeckling. He voted against the censure, but remains on the board. Broeckling’s term expires in April 2027.
The teachers’ union subsequently filed a formal grievance, prompting the investigation.
District officials say the investigation could take a month or longer due to the large number of complaints. If any claims are substantiated, the board of education would then vote to ask Regional Superintendent Jill Reis to rule on a possible removal from office.