Poway school board votes to terminate superintendent after investigation

POWAY, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI) — The Poway Unified school board voted 
unanimously Tuesday to terminate the district’s superintendent following a 
months-long investigation.

Marian Kim Phelps’ character came under fire during a November board 
meeting. At that time, students and parents had raised harassment 
allegations against the superintendent stemming from a Del Norte High 
School softball banquet in May. Also in November, a softball player filed 
a lawsuit accusing Phelps of bullying her and her teammates because they 
did not clap loud enough for her daughter, also a softball player, during 
the banquet.

Phelps denied the allegations, which included calling and texting 
students.

‘Accidental causes’ likely in Oceanside Pier fire: officials

In February, the board placed Phelps on administrative leave.

After the board heard public comment Tuesday, trustees went into closed 
session for nearly three hours. During closed session, FOX 5/KUSI learned 
from the board that the independent investigation that started in November 
and concluded earlier this month brought to light “previously unknown 
evidence” from witnesses with firsthand knowledge that contradicted 
Phelps’ statement to the board, district staff and the public.

The board said based on Phelps’ conduct, they lost confidence and trust in 
her to continue as a superintendent and to work collaboratively with them.

Meet the San Diego Zoo’s new pandas

Parents say awaiting Phelps’ termination has been long and painful.

“I’m glad it finally came to this decision, but for months and months of 
families that have had to endure hardships for mental hardships with this 
whole situation is the unfortunate part of it,” parent Rachelle Babler 
said to FOX 5/KUSI on Tuesday.

The board says Interim Superintendent Greg Mizel will continue in his role 
during the transition period.

https://www.yahoo.com/news/poway-school-board-votes-terminate-
201537619.html