School authorities suspend top administrator at Liberty Elementary School
The Liberty Elementary School District's Governing Board has placed interim superintendent Trevor McDonald on paid administrative leave, following a 3-2 vote earlier this week. The decision has sparked controversy among parents, teachers, and community members.
The discussion leading to the vote took place in executive session, behind closed doors. The Governing Board justified the dismissal of McDonald, who took office on July 1, due to unspecified administrative or performance concerns.
Kellie Zimmerman, who voted against putting McDonald on leave, expressed concerns about instability, trust violation, legal risk, and potential misconduct cover-up. Fellow board member Bryan Cirrincione responded by stating that putting McDonald on leave upholds the law.
The vote comes as the budget vote for the Liberty Elementary School District is approaching. Todd, who was appointed to the board by Maricopa County Superintendent Shelli Boggs in April, stated that the board acts in the best interest of the school district. He could not provide further comment on McDonald's leave.
Todd, who has a strong financial and business background and deep community involvement, was appointed due to his 'solid grasp' of the district's financial situation and his ability to restore fiscal stability. However, his appointment has not been without controversy. Parents Ashley Wright and Virginia Ferron protested the appointment, expressing concerns about the lack of support for teachers and students.
McDonald's current contract shows he is being paid a base salary of $178,000, scheduled through June 30, 2026. Some parents expressed satisfaction with McDonald's work, citing his accessibility and responsiveness.
The community has expressed discontent with the school board's leadership, leading to resignations of board president Michael Todd and Bryan Parks. This is the third time in two years that the district has had to appoint a new superintendent, with Lori Shough and Cort Monroe having resigned before their contracts were up. Both Shough and Monroe received large severance payments in their separation agreements.
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