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Wayne-Westland Schools superintendent suing district for $2 million

Posted at 6:31 AM, Jul 16, 2019
and last updated 2019-07-16 07:12:34-04

WAYNE, Mich. (WXYZ) — The superintendent of Wayne-Westand Community Schools has filed a $2 million lawsuit against the district.

Dr. Shelley Holt claims the district is retaliating against her for reporting violations of federal and state laws governing the operation of the district.

The school board voted to put Holt on administrative leave following claims about her behavior. She was accused of creating a culture of fear, treating employees unfairly, changing policies for unnamed personal reason and not responding to the needs of special education students in a timely manner.

“I am appalled by the School Board’s handling of the matter,” said Holt's attorney Anthony Adams. “Dr. Holt is an outstanding educator who continues to be committed to improving the education of the Wayne Westland School District. I look forward to clearing her name, restoring her reputation and helping her fulfill her plans for Wayne Westland students”

Holt alleges that the board engaged in disparate treatment of her as a black woman when it relates to the handling of complaints being made against her.

An interim superintendent has been named after Holt put on administrative leave.