(Atlantic) The Atlantic School Board scheduled a meeting at 7:30 this (Wednesday) morning at the Middle School Conference room to act on the resignation of High School Guidance Counselor Jesse McCann. Schools Superintendent Dr. Beth Johnsen, school board member Gini Jordan, and School Board Chairman Josh McLaren appeared at the meeting, along with a room full of concerned citizens.
McLaren opened the meeting, stating they would not hold it and would not make a decision on the resignation of Jesse McCann.
On Tuesday, the Atlantic Police Department stated they have been made aware of an incident involving a school staff member and students. The Atlantic Police Department has been investigating the information provided. The release stated, “They take the safety of the children and community that we serve very seriously and will continue to handle this investigation thoroughly.” The APD has not released any further details at this time, and no charges have been filed.
The meeting became contentious, with some community members calling for the firing of the Atlantic Community School Staff member involved in the investigation.
Some community members claimed school officials had prior knowledge of the incident involving a school staff member and students.
Meanwhile, the school board is accepting applications to fill a seat on the board by appointment following Laura McLean’s resignation, who is moving out of the district. Some of the community members in attendance were passing around a petition to force an election rather than an appointment by the board
The board allowed community members to voice their concerns for nearly an hour, but did not comment further due to legal issues.
