Allegations of Misconduct Haunt Already Plagued WCSD

Misconduct allegations are shaking the Washoe County School District (WCSD), prompting accusations of a politically motivated conspiracy.

Trustee Jeff Church, a vocal advocate for reform within the district, finds himself at the center of a controversy that has ignited a firestorm of accusations and counterclaims. Church alleges that his fellow board members are targeting him to undermine his credibility and derail his reelection bid.

At the heart of the matter are allegations of sexual harassment leveled against Church by two female district employees. The accusations, which Church vehemently denies, supposedly occurred in a parking lot following a board meeting. However, video evidence exonerates him, placing him elsewhere at the time of the alleged incident.

Furthermore, Church contends that the board’s leadership, particularly Board President Beth Smith and Trustee Diane Nicolet, have attempted to silence him and tarnish his reputation. He claims that efforts to initiate an independent investigation continue to be refused, leading him to file a Writ of Mandamus to compel compliance with Nevada law and district policies.

The controversy escalated with the district demanding $500,000 in funds to defend against potential legal action initiated by Church. The development has raised eyebrows, with Church and his supporters decrying what they perceive as an attempt to cover up a purported conspiracy within the highest echelons of the district.

The drama has drawn attention to broader concerns about governance and transparency within WCSD. The district’s handling of the allegations and reluctance to pursue an impartial investigation are in question.

Church has called for public scrutiny and accountability, urging community members to attend the upcoming board meeting on March 12th. He contends that the allegations against him are part of a concerted effort to undermine his position and stifle his efforts to advocate for meaningful reform within the district.

The tumultuous situation within WCSD comes against a backdrop of persistently low proficiency rates in English Language Arts and Mathematics, raising serious concerns about the quality of education. With several board members, including Church, up for reelection in November 2024, the controversy adds uncertainty to an already fraught electoral landscape.