Auggie Romero changed the grades of 6 graduating seniors without the teacher's consent -- a violation of state law. Our 2-year investigation revealed Romero also violated district policies surrounding drug and vandalism incidents that put student safety at risk.
Two weeks ago, the board voted 3 to 2 to renew all the principals contracts, including Romero, another year. Michael Hicks had told KGUN9 he lost faith in Romero's leadership, but had voted to continue his contract another year because he said Romero lawyered up.
Days before the next board meeting Michael Hicks, who was the swing vote, reversed course and requested Romero's contract be rescinded with a notice of the board's intent to not offer a new contract.
At the call to audience, Pueblo teachers and students spoke out in support of Romero and two board members, Adelita Grijalva and Kristol Foster, didn't mince words about how they felt.
Grijalva said, "Mr. Hicks and Dr. Stegemen have never voted for Dr. Romero to hve a contract in any position in TUSD. They were very opposed to Dr. Romero during Mexican American Studies, Also verifiable." Foster said, There's no due process to fire this individual at all."
Following the vote, Foster and Grijalva were visibly upset. Foster called for a recess.
Romero will finish out this school year.
The teacher who came forward to KGUN9 says she now hopes the district will do more to ensure these illegal actions will not happen again.
We'll continue to investigate these types of violations in districts.
RELATED LINKS:
Alleged grade changing at Pueblo High School
Pueblo HS principal suspended without pay
Pueblo teacher comes forward on grade changing
TUSD won't release prove findings to teacher
Report on illegal grade changing released
Pueblo HS principal responds to grade changing claims via Facebook
TUSD principal accused of grade changing is retiring
Attemptedwalkout by Pueblo HS students
Principal's contract renewed because he "lawyered up"
Board could vote not to renew principal's contract
