Donnell facing termination from school district post
Cape Councilmember Derrick Donnell said Monday the investigation into his conduct is complete and he’s being recommended for termination.
The Department of Profes-sional Standards and Equity made the recommendation, he said, and the Lee County School Board will vote on the matter Tuesday, May 3.
The investigation, according to Donnell, found ethical and sexual harassment complaints, the latter coming as a total surprise, he said.
Donnell said he was shocked at both the recommendation for termination and the sexual harassment complaint.
He said the sexual harassment complaints suddenly “popped up.”
“I am furious to even see that with this investigation,” Donnell said. “I’ve had no complaints, I’ve never had it attached to my name.”
Donnell has been with the Lee County School District for 16 years, eight as a teacher and eight as an administrator.
The investigation has been ongoing since December, during which time Donnell has been serving a suspension.
Angered by the charges, Donnell said the process has been tough on his family. He said the recommendation is unfair.
With his District 7 council seat up for election this year, Donnell said he hasn’t had the time to think about his political future. He said he plans on sitting down with his family and pastor to talk about his future when the time comes.
“I haven’t had the time to think about anything … I just ask that people continue to pray for me and my family,” he said.