Northwestern board to discuss investigation for 3rd time in 2 weeks

The Northwestern Board of Education members will hold another closed session to discuss an investigation into a public employee Thursday as part of their regular board meeting.

Board members will meet beginning at 4 p.m. Thursday at the Northwestern Elementary School’s library, according to the agenda, and go into executive session to “consider the investigation of complaints against a public employee.”

PREVIOUSLY: Northwestern investigating allegations against superintendent

Allegations of unprofessional conduct raised against Superintendent Jesse Steiner are being investigated, according to a statement from the board’s attorney. School board President Donna Meyers and other school leaders have declined to detail the allegations.

“The board is investigating allegations of unprofessional conduct that were raised concerning the superintendent,” the statement says. “The superintendent is aware of the investigation and is not reporting to work to allow for a thorough and expeditious investigation. Once the investigation has been completed, the board will take whatever action it deems is in the best interests of the district and the students it serves.”

READ MORE: Northwestern to discuss complaints amid superintendent probe

Steiner hasn’t been placed on leave and is receiving his salary of about $125,000.

Supporters of Steiner say they believe the investigation is unfair and that the board should give the community an idea of what the accusations involve.

The regular meeting Thursday will be the third time in two weeks the board has held an executive session to discuss an investigation into a public employee. The school board met twice last week, including for more than five hours on Saturday before deciding no action should be taken that day.

Other items, including a public comment period, are on Thursday’s meeting agenda.

MORE COVERAGE: No action taken in Northwestern superintendent investigation

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