By: Jacob Kessler
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
jacob@thevillagereporter.com
The Four County Joint Vocational Education Association (FCJVEA) has approved a vote of no confidence in the leadership of Superintendent Jeff Slattery.
The vote, which was unanimously supported by FCJVEA members, reflects growing concerns over what the press release describes as a culture of hostility within the district.
According to the release, FCJVEA members reported feeling “disrespected, unsupported, and disregarded” under Slattery’s administration.
The association further alleged a “pervasive culture of hostility and harassment” and claimed that there has been a “consistent effort to silence the voices of educators and staff.”
The association presented the no confidence vote to the Four County Joint Vocational School District Board of Education during a recent meeting, calling attention to workplace concerns and urging action.
“This decision is a direct response to the systemic problems within our district,” said FCJVEA President Morgan Weber. “Our educators are the backbone of the educational system.”
“The superintendent’s leadership style has fostered a climate where educators no longer feel safe to express their concerns or contribute to decisions that directly impact students’ futures.”
“Our priority is the well-being of our students, and to serve them effectively, we must ensure that our educators are supported, heard, and respected.”
Also in the release, FCJVEA cited multiple concerns over working conditions, including verbal and emotional harassment, the disregard of input from educators, failure to take action following inappropriate behavior, lack of accountability, and a refusal to engage in constructive dialogue with staff.
Slattery has served as superintendent since January 2023 and was approved for a new five-year contract in November, extending his tenure through July 31, 2030.
Weber emphasized that the vote of ‘No Confidence’ is not taken lightly. “We are committed to working collaboratively with the school board to bring about the changes necessary to ensure our schools are safe, supportive, and empowering for both students and educators,” said Weber.
“We are standing together to express our concerns and demand meaningful change as well as a commitment to creating a positive and inclusive work environment, so we can best serve the students who count on us every day.”