The Board of Education for the Greater Victoria School District No. 61 held a closed meeting to consider allegations of misconduct related to two Board trustees.

At that meeting, the Board determined to censure those trustees for their misconduct.

In addition, both Trustee Diane McNally and Trustee Rob Paynter have been suspended from their duties until October 2022.

The Board was made aware of two formal complaints about bullying and harassment towards staff related to disparaging comments made publicly.

Due to the serious nature of these allegations, the Board launched a third-party investigation with a highly experienced lawyer and investigator.

A thorough investigation and subsequent report substantiated the claims of misconduct. The Board is reviewing the trustee code of conduct and bylaws to ensure appropriate measures are in place to address these types of behaviours.

Spokesperson Lisa McPhail says, there must be zero tolerance for bullying in the Greater Victoria School District. All employees and students deserve to feel safe when they enter our schools and workplace.