San Dieguito School Board Fires Supt. Cheryl James-Ward
The San Dieguito Union High School District Board voted unanimously Sunday to fire Superintendent Cheryl James-Ward, effective Aug. 15. Ward has already indicated she’d sue the district if she lost her job.
Ward came under fire two months ago for offensive comments she made about Asian students. She apologized and was placed on leave. Interim Superintendent Tina Douglas has been carrying out the superintendent’s duties ever since.
To hear Ward tell it, her comments about Asian students are just a smokescreen. Ward alleges she was retaliated against for launching an investigation into Trustee Michael Allman, who she accuses of racist and sexist behavior, as well as harassment.
The controversy surrounding Ward has divided the community of Encinitas. Her termination — and expected lawsuit — is likely to further polarize parents, school staff and the student body.
