Liberty board hears investigation findings, Zimmerman responds

By Mary Goldmeer
Mail

At its August meeting, the Liberty Elementary School District governing board heard the results of an independent investigation into board member Kellie Zimmerman’s conduct and read a board letter addressing the matter.

The investigation, conducted by the Ledbetter Law Firm, stemmed from a written complaint that raised the issue of possible racism filed in April.

Investigators reviewed hours of meeting footage and interviewed 10 witnesses, including board members, district employees and service providers. The report found insufficient evidence to conclude that Zimmerman’s treatment of a district employee was racially motivated. It did state that ethical breaches, hostility and lack of professionalism were evident. 

Zimmerman addressed the item during the meeting. 

“I recognize and apologize that I have upset someone in the district; that is certainly never my intention. I always strive to speak with respect, something that I think all board members should do and we should be held at the same standard,” Zimmerman said. “I will continue to ask the hard questions because I was elected to do [that]. I am moving forward as I have to support the staff and teachers collective and my fellow board members to achieve the district's mission by ensuring all students have the opportunity to learn the highest level.”

At the meeting, board president Michael Todd, on behalf of the governing board addressed Zimmerman through a prewritten statement.

 “(Zimmerman’s behavior) has been confrontational, combative, and unprofessional, falling far short of the expectations we hold for ourselves as Public Officials,” stated Todd. “(This behavior)  has contributed to a hostile and disruptive environment.” 

Todd’s letter called on Zimmerman to take responsibility for her actions and to issue a public apology to the District Employees and the Liberty Elementary School District No. 25 Community.

During public comment, several residents expressed appreciation toward Zimmerman, saying she was a safe place to turn with complaints. Some said she was being held to standards not applied to others on the board and asked for accountability and professionalism for all members.

In a separate written statement put out before the meeting Zimmerman apologized to the district community who took offence to her direct communication styles in meetings or in emails. 

“I want to clarify that my intention is not to offend anyone with my tone; I simply strive to speak the truth and uphold my responsibilities as a publicly elected official,” stated Zimmerman. “I remain committed to my role as a board member; a role the community overwhelmingly elected me to. I was and still am honored to have been elected to serve and remain steadfast in my desire to bring accountability, transparency and integrity to the Liberty Elementary governing board as I promised the constituents during my campaign.”

Visit liberty25.org for more information.