Union Rep: Litigation For Demoted D135 Staffer Could Cost $100,000

The last time Deneen Pajeau was involved in grievance litigation with Orland School District 135, the process took about seven months from the date the claim was filed until all was finished. The cost to the school district was about $50,000.

This time, the Illinois Federation of Teachers field service director believes it will take longer and be more costly.

“Melanie (Walsh) was told they would litigate this as long as it takes, no matter what it would cost,” Pajeau said.

On Tuesday, a demotion grievance was filed by IFT on behalf of Walsh, a 15-year district employee who was . The Board of Education voted 4-3 to demote Walsh, though it originally approved her hiring.

“I have heard this case could cost the district about $100,000,” Pajeau said.

Board member Joe LaMargo said the litigation could be avoided and that the funds and time would be better spent on efforts for the students’ benefit.

“I voted the way I voted because in my opinion there is no need to demote her,” LaMargo said.  “The position was posted properly, she was qualified and it’s my understanding that she performed well on the job.”

The school board will have to meet in closed session to take the first action on the grievance within the next two scheduled meetings, or no later than 45 days from Tuesday. If the board denies the claim, the next step is an arbitration hearing, which can take considerable time to make happen, Pajeau said.

“You have to apply for an arbitrator, then set a date that all parties agree on, which can be months out,” Pajeau said.

The grievance asks that Walsh be reinstated into the secretary job she started in June, and any lost wages from Sept. 21 on be paid back.

IFT is also scheduled to file an unfair labor practice claim with the school district.

Board president John Carmody, vice president Ann Gentile, secretary Tina Zekich and member Tom Cunningham voted in favor of the demotion. The issue came up after learning Walsh is related to Colleen Schultz, assistant superintendent of special services and director of special education. The four members also apparently took issue with the secretarial position only being posted internally.

Board members Mary Bragg, Lynne Donegan and LaMargo voted against the demotion.

Carmody and Gentile declined to comment Thursday on the matter. A message left with other board members was not returned Thursday night.