POCATELLO -- Some Pocatello teachers and district employees say Superintendent Linda Powell was suspended because of her attitude.
"The definition of a tyrant is harsh arbitrary rule," said Bonneville Elementary School counselor Jan McCormick. "And that's what we've been under.
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The Pocatello School Board ruled 4-0 in June to suspend Powell for failing to keep the board informed and failing to create a positive climate in the district.
McCormick, technology coordinator Bob England, Hawthorne Middle School teacher Denise England, technology secretary Laura McRae and former district clerk Linda Payne said the school board made the right decision when it put Powell on administrative leave June 24.
McCormick and Bob England both complained of unfair practices in internal district matters.
In February McCormick said her request for a conflict resolution meeting was met with a formal reprimand. She was not allowed to answer to the charges.
"I received no due process," McCormick said.
Bob England said he was stripped of his rights and privileges after being told he made an undisclosed mistake last year.
He was also sent a formal reprimand.
"Never was I asked by the administration my side of the story. No due process was followed," he said.
Though many teachers and employees feel Powell's ouster is good news for the district, many residents think the board acted too harshly.
"I think she's had to make some very tough decisions," said Patti Farrell, whose four children attend district schools. "I would rather have her make the tough decisions rather than standing back and making everyone happy."
Wilcox Elementary School teacher Kim Ely said Powell's attitude was encouraging and supportive.
"I think our schools have improved since she's taken over," Ely said Friday.