On April 16, the Cole R-I Board of Education members Jennifer Seaver, Adam Weber and Shawn Ehrhardt; at the recommendation or direction of Superintendent Perry Gorrell, voted to terminate Judy Wilson's employment as the High School Secretary.  This action is in direct violation of the Oath of Office the board members swore to uphold as duly elected officials serving as a voice for the community and advocate for students. As voters cast their ballots in support for School Board officials, it is done so with an abundance of trust that the nominee will act unfailingly as a designee to represent the interests and voice of the community on public education issues, founded on the belief that citizens should play a dominant role in determining how children in a community are educated.

Superintendent Perry Gorrell failed to uphold basic organization, employment and ethical standards in his recommendation or direction to School Board members.  Void of accountability to the employee for a basis for her termination, Superintendent Gorrell exercised an abuse of power, resulting in the removal of an employee that exceeded all performance standards and had a major positive impact on the lives of students, past and present, parents, colleagues and the community as a whole.  Judy Wilson acted upon the integrity and commitment to the Cole R-I School District that this community wishes to see in the schools governing officials.  Therefore, we demand that Judy Wilson's employment as the High School Secretary be re-instated effective immediately.  

The lack of conforming to basic standards of ethical behavior in it personnel processes is abhorrent and intolerable to the voters and taxpayers of this district, parents, students, employees, and the community.  Therefore, as constituents, the signers of this petition appeal to the above named School Board members and the Superintendent to resign your positions immediately.