Bullying, threats, and intimidation, WINK News obtained the results of an investigation that found all of that taking place inside the School District of Lee County. Now, one school board member could face possible sanctions from the governor.
WINK News investigative reporter Peter Fleischer takes you through the allegations, the findings, and possible punishment.
WINK News broke this story last May when the school board first censured board member Chris Patricca after a whistleblower complaint accused her of creating a hostile work environment.
The final report, issued earlier this month but not yet made public, found the whistleblower complaints credible. That means the governor could suspend Patricca.
“I think we need to address the complaint that was given to us yesterday,” said Melisa Giovannelli during a school board meeting last May.
Lee School Board Attorney Kathy Dupuy-Bruno filed the whistleblower complaint in May 2022.
In it, she accuses school board member Chris Patricca of bullying and demeaning behavior. Dupuy-Bruno doubled down, saying Patricca subjected her to unwarranted criticism, threats and intimidation.
The report found evidence to support the complaints.
“I actually wasn’t very surprised,” said Giovannelli.
Board member Melisa Giovannelli is listed as one of the 12 people interviewed as part of the investigation. Giovannelli motioned for the whistleblower complaint to be investigated in the first place.
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