A coalition of former educators filed state and federal grievances this week against Lake Pend Oreille School District, challenging the superintendent’s plan to relocate alternative high school students to trailers positioned behind the middle school. The grievance document spans more than 30 pages and alleges multiple violations in the decision-making process.
Superintendent Becky Meyer, who previously served as principal of the alternative school, moved forward with the relocation plan without presenting it for board discussion or a formal vote. Jackie Branum, a retired West Bonner School District superintendent, filed the complaint on behalf of the coalition, alleging the district misused consent agendas, manipulated attendance data, misallocated public funds, and violated open meeting requirements.
The district has denied the allegations. Meyer indicated she plans to bring the relocation proposal before the board for a formal vote at an upcoming meeting.
Community Opposition Continues
The months-long controversy has drawn significant community resistance. Randy Wilhelm, a retired art teacher, founded Advocates for Lake Pend Oreille High School, which has grown to over 500 members opposing the plan. The group continues to challenge the district’s proposal through formal channels.
The grievance filing marks an escalation in the dispute over the alternative school’s future and reflects broader concerns about how district leadership handles major facility and program decisions affecting students and staff.
What Comes Next
The outcome of the state and federal grievances remains uncertain. Meyer’s commitment to seek a formal board vote suggests the district intends to move ahead with the relocation plan, but the grievances could prompt additional scrutiny of the administrative process. Community members and advocates have signaled they will continue monitoring the situation closely. For local context on education funding pressures statewide, see Idaho Special Education Overhaul Looms for 41,200 Students as Budget Pressures Persist.