Silence Broken: Details of Turnbaugh’s Resignation from Centennial Revealed
Dr. Thomas Turnbaugh quietly resigned from his post as Centennial School District's Superintendent of Schools in late 2010 after what court documents allege was a year filled with instances of intimidation and sexual harassment.
A popular Centennial School District administrator recently filed a civil lawsuit that details several alleged incidents of sexual harassment perpetrated by former Superintendent Thomas Turnbaugh.
According to the suit filed in the United States District Court of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Donna Dunar, current Willow Dale Elementary School principal and former director of elementary education for Centennial, was “denied promotion, demoted and faces possible discharge” for reporting Turnbaugh’s misconduct.
Anita Alberts, who is representing Dunar in the suit, filed the paperwork with the court in June 2011. The filing comes on the heels of another civil rights suit against the district brought by former Assistant Superintendent of Schools Sandy Homel.
Turnbaugh abruptly resigned from the district in late 2010, after just a little more than a year of service. Other than a press release stating “the decision to resign was solely Dr. Turnbaugh’s,” the district offered no comment on his departure.
The suit alleges several instances, beginning in July 2010 when Dunar became the director of elementary education, where Turnbaugh would “get physically close to [Dunar] and in her face.”
The suit also alleges Turnbaugh made advances toward Dunar, saying things such as “I want to run away with you” and “you just strike me that you would be a lot of fun… a couple of drinks; one thing leads to another…”
According to the court documents, Dunar was mortified when Turnbaugh “inferred [she] should be receptive to his advances because her husband suffered a stroke in 2005.”
The court documents say Dunar told School Board President Andrew Pollock about Turnbaugh’s advances and that she filed an internal complaint with the school district.
“Pollock spoke of Marilyn Monroe, discouraging [Dunar’s] complaint by inferring attractive women shouldn’t complain of men’s advances,” according to the court documents.
The suit alleges Pollock suggested Dunar should “wait and see” rather than following through with the complaint, as Turnbaugh would probably only receive a “slap on the wrist.”
According to the court documents, when Dunar returned from discussing the claim with Pollock, Turnbaugh came to her office with “fists clenched, leaned over her desk … and loudly demanded she come to his office.”
Once in his office, Turnbaugh “demanded she tell him what she was going to do,” because with two prior charges “his strained relationship with her was problematic for him,” according to the lawsuit.
”Tired, shaking, bullied and coerced,” Dunar agreed to withdraw her complaint “so that he would let her leave [the office],” according to the suit.
The court documents say “Turnbaugh retaliated against [Dunar] by doubling her workload. He pestered her constantly and watched her like a hawk to force her to resign.”
According to the suit, Dunar renewed her internal complaint in Nov. 2010, but she was unaware that “Turnbaugh’s employment contract required all investigations of his conduct to be secret, with prior notice to him, and prohibited the public school district from disclosing any wrongdoing discovered.”
In the answer to the complaint filed with the court on Wednesday, CSD affirms that Dunar did in fact file two sexual harassment complaints against Turnbaugh.
The answer also says, ”following a prompt investigation into her internal complaints, the former superintendent was forced to resign on Dec. 6, 2010.”
However, in the court documents Centennial’s lawyers said, “concluding that Turnbaugh’s contract required secrecy and prohibited the school district from disclosing any wrongdoing” was nothing more than a “bald assertion" and an "unsubstantiated conclusion.”
Upper Southampton Patch has filed a Right-to-Know request with the district for a copy of Turnbaugh’s contract.
The district has yet to respond to the request, but similar language to what is alluded to in Dunar’s suit does appear in Turnbaugh’s contract with a previous school district.
The suit alleges that when Turnbaugh resigned in Dec 2010, Pollock called an emergency meeting where he told administrators, including Dunar, “no one was allowed to discuss the resignation with anyone.”
And while some school board members have made veiled references alluding to Turnbaugh as a tyrannical leader, previously no one from the district has commented on his resignation, citing the inability to discuss matters of personnel.
In an interview earlier this week, Pollock reiterated the policy of not discussing matters of personnel. However, he did say that all internal complaints are handed over to a third party for investigation.
“[The matter] is investigated and a recommendation is made by the person doing the investigation,” he said.
Pollock said action is then taken, in accordance with the level of the complaint.
He attributed the decision to eliminate Dunar’s position to a declining student population, and said that the school board felt in light of the recent cuts in staffing that district’s administration should be pared down as well.
Pollock said the board typically defers to the superintendent of schools for any reorganization in the structure of administration.
“[The superintendent] comes to us for approval,” he said. “And, generally speaking, we allow [the superintendent] to have the organization she wants. “
“The organization she wants, not necessarily the people,” he added.
He said because of decreasing enrollment numbers it seemed prudent to eliminate the director positions and hire an assistant superintendent.
He said the district posted the assistant superintendent position, so that “[Dunar] or any other qualified candidate who was interested could apply.”
Pollock said he could not say when or where the positions were posted, or even comment as to whether or not Dunar had applied, citing matters of personnel.
According to paperwork filed with the court, "since the filing of the complaint, Dunar has taken an administrative position with the Pennsbury School District and has resigned from Centennial. Her last day of work at Centennial is scheduled to be Friday, Aug. 26.”
The lawyers on both sides of the case did not respond to multiple requests for comment.
Veronica Connelly
3:44 pm on Thursday, August 25, 2011
If it is true that his contract contained wording that "required secrecy and prohibited the school district from disclosing any wrongdoing" isn't that a giant red flag and he shouldn't have been hired in the first place? And yet the school district requires parent volunteers to have a complete FBI criminal background check completed in order to go on a field trip.
southampton parent
4:11 pm on Thursday, August 25, 2011
I agree Veronica it is a disgrace. EVERYONE should be checked for all criminal background. And Pollock to discourage her complaint is also a disgrace. NO one should get away with that and or threaten their job to make them feel unsafe and leave. What is this district coming to??
Diane O'Connor
2:47 pm on Friday, August 26, 2011
I agree Veronica! Hello..Red Flag!! Just think of all the other things that we don't even know of... yet!
Aimee Allston Svarczkopf
4:00 pm on Thursday, August 25, 2011
I agree with Veronica , as a parent who has had the pleasure of Dr. Dunar as a Principal of Leary Elementary, she is a great educator and a person who honestly cares not only about the students she also cared about the teaching staff and the parents and community. It is appauling that she had to deal with this situation, CSD Board members should be ashamed of themselves. CSD loss is Pennsbury's gain.
Good luck to Dr. Dunar you will be sadly missed. I am sorry that you had to go through this.
Mary Alice Brancato
6:58 pm on Thursday, August 25, 2011
I am furious!!!!! How dare Centennial School Board allow this pig to do this to such a great woman and educator! She is the best thing that ever happened to this school district and this A hole gets away with this!!!! Oh ladies...it's time for us to stand up!!!!!
I wonder if Dr. Pollock would had the same answer if it was HIS DAUGHTER!!!!
Mr. Pollock you need to go now!!!!! You are as bad as Turnbaugh for telling Dr. Dunar to wait it out!!!!!!!! Oh I am mad and I have every intention of making sure every person I know finds out what our school board allowed to happen to the great woman!
Dr. Dunar's demotion was punishment for her speaking up and we all know it! I am floored that this is happening in our area. It's time for all of us to speak up!!!
My Opinon Works
7:49 pm on Thursday, August 25, 2011
Mary Alice you said it right!!!!! WOW that's all I have to say!! When you get a person that cares as she does for the children, teachers, parents and the community of this school district you don't let them go!!!!! What the hell is wrong with Centennial School Board???? You people should be ashamed of yourselves!!!! Imagine this was your wives, daughters or even mothers involved???
Lauren Tieri
7:55 pm on Thursday, August 25, 2011
Yes I agree with Mary Alice. Dr. Dunar is the best thing that happened to Centennial School District. I wish I could move to Pennsbury School District. I was so happy when I found out she was going to be my daughters principal again, but if I would have known why I wouldn't have been so happy.
Risa T
8:07 pm on Thursday, August 25, 2011
I agree with everyone here! I am appalled at these turn of events! How dare our school district allow ANYONE to go through something like this. Dr Dunar is one of the best educators I have ever had the pleasure of knowing and her loss is big!
I will stand with everyone on this one! Dr Pollack you definitely should be ashamed of the way you handled this whole situation. "Attractive women shouldn't complain"?. "Wait and see"? Disgraceful!
Mary Alice Brancato
8:24 pm on Thursday, August 25, 2011
I have alot of kids. I've dealt with principals in Catholic School in both Philadelphia and Bucks county. My kids have had several principals in public school in Centennial. I have to say that Dr. Dunar was simply the best we could have asked for in a principal! She was the best! Not one principal they've ever had can compare to her!
I am so appalled that any superintendent thought he had the right to speak to anyone like this! Dr. Pollock's remark that attractive women shouldn't complain is just as bad! So when the next woman comes is abused by a school official should she blame herself if she is attractive? Please Dr. Pollack do all of us a favor and step down! Treating women with such disrespect is archaic!
No MAN has the right sexually harass ANYONE! No one! Whoever told Dr. Turnbaugh he was above the law needs to be removed and in my opinion that would be Dr. Pollack!
Thank you Dr. Dunar for standing up and speaking up! You are a great example to our children and you will be missed! Once again Centennial throws away another good one!
Steve S
8:59 pm on Thursday, August 25, 2011
Should the events presented prove to be true, I would fully expect that Dr. Pollack realize the "grevious" nature of his actions as president of the School Board and tender his resignation. Dr. Dunar was a great principal and educator to my children and I have no reason to doubt her allegations,however this article points to a much larger issue: Is the Centennial Board of Directors,past/present/future capable of leading the district in a effective manner? Just look at several of the events that have occurred in the past several year. One:our school district has had (4) superintendents and (1) interim in the past 5-6 year? Two:How many of us parents were furious at the wat the Operations meeting regarding the consolidations of the elementary schools, Seemed like decisions were already made without our input. Third, I recently discovered that WIllowdale's previous principal had been involved in a "dubious" financial dealing resulting in her repaying monies to avoid legal action.yet she remained the principal until this past year. Fourth: Dr Pollack stated that the Director of Elementary Education postion was eliminated because of the overall cutbacks occurring within the district. Dr. Dunar was assigned this position only a year ago, Do they lack the long term planning capabilities required for their elected positions or are politics involved to the point where bad decisions are made and agreed upon at a cost to all of us, parent, children, taxpayers, and educators.
Annette Sheaffer
9:05 pm on Thursday, August 25, 2011
What an outrage!!!! I'm furious over this!!! She is an absolutely beautiful, and loving educator! My children were lucky to know her and have her serve as their principal! Fight back Dr Dunar!!! Fight hard!!
Amanda McGregor
9:49 pm on Thursday, August 25, 2011
This is SO upsetting. I can not believe that the district that I grew up in would do this to such an AWESOME educator. This is going to be a huge loss to the Centennial School District. I first met Dr.Dunar when she was one of the deans when I was at Tennent. Pensbury just gained an amazing asset to thier community. Dr. Pollack and Dr. Turnbaugh should be ashamed of themselves, they are an embarassment to our community. They should both be held accountable. Centennial is going downhill very fast and this is one of the reasons that my future children will never step foot in a centennial school.
Aimee Allston Svarczkopf
10:41 pm on Thursday, August 25, 2011
I can's begin to express my horror at these events. The only scarier thing I can think of would be to have a pedophile loose in our classrooms! In essence that is what we had with "Dr. Turnstomach". To believe that Dr. Pollack would be so cavalier about the accusations is disgusting. Both of these pigs should be gone. Who is the idiot who allowed a "secrecy" clause to even be considered? Canyou say "RED FLAG?" This rant could last for weeks but all I can say is that a wonderful human being has been damaged and taken advantage of. She has been injured and I hope that she and her family will come through it. Kick ... Dr. Dunar. Take them for all you can!
Such a wonderful proponent of the "Pillars of Character" to our children has been done in by both the Board and it's hiring practices. I find it amazing that the search committee did not discover what a supposedly fine upstanding individual they hired to lead our schools. They all need to go very far away. We will miss you and our prayers go with you and your family.
Leary/Willow Dale Mom
11:40 pm on Thursday, August 25, 2011
My heart is breaking for my kids. I am not sure how to even tell them the news that their beloved principal wont be there with them as the change schools in two weeks. We truly felt the heart of Leary school was coming with us when we were moving to Willow Dale. As a community I would love to be a part of anything we can do to help bring Dr. Dunar back to our "family". In this day and age no person should have to face the issues this amazing woman is for telling the truth. What type of person needs a secrecy clause????? Where are her rights to not face harassment in the work place??? And to demote and punish her for speaking up is disgraceful. Her bravery is yet another reason she is a role model for our children. I will never forget the day Dr. Dunar visited Leary and the Day the Philie Phanatic came. I don't know who got more hugs from the students. She is truley loved and we were honored ot have her as a part of our education family. Pollack should be the one gone. How dare he tell her to accept and expect it because of her appearance and to wait and see. I can only imagine the terrible time Dr. Dunar was facing. I know in my heart she loved our children and would not leave them unless forced out. The school board should be ashamed.
Jenea
8:39 am on Friday, August 26, 2011
This is definately it for me with the Centennial School Board and admistration. I think it's time I look into private education for my children. Over the last two years, the Centennial School Board has done nothing BUT disappoint me and fail my children. Absolute disgrace. Dr. Dunar, I too applaud you for walking away with your head held high. I agree wuth the Leary/Willow Dale mom, I just don't know how I'm going to tell my children.
KATE
9:11 am on Friday, August 26, 2011
Dittos to all the above, and some! I agree and want to say more as well, but maybe it would be best at the next school board meeting, eh? the most important thing to say here is this: THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU- to Patch!! Our newspaper thru the years, with its lack of any information of any nature, caused me to start attending meetings 9 years ago, and i have been thoroughly disgusted over the way it provides no information to those of us in the community, who cannot go to all the meetings, and is working hard to pay the teachers and our civil servants-we need a news source who asks these questions, and provides the actual information. Now lets go in person and get some answers from the Board members ourselves.
Mary Alice Brancato
9:27 am on Friday, August 26, 2011
Kate I agree...we need to flood that school board meeting and demand answers! Being furious over the loss of our best educator and the loss our children will feel without her in our school district is evident. Now we need to get answers so that other good teachers and administrators are treated fairly. NO ONE should ever tell a woman she has to keep quiet about sexual harassment! NO ONE should ever lose a job because she did not respond to some PIG'S sexual advances! NO ONE should ever have to endure the hell I'm sure Dr. Dunar had to endure while doing her job or elsewhere! It's time to put our money where our mouths are and get this school district on the right track and if that means heads have to roll on that school board then so be it!
You are also right about PATCH! Imagine if they didn't supply us with this information.....we might have never known!
I'll be @ that school board meeting and I would also suggest everyone send our school board members an email and let them know how we feel. You would think at least one of them would respond to this article but as I've been told time and time again by Centennial administrators......it's all about the liability!!!!
Seems our district's policy is if it can be a liability then they just keep their mouths shut instead of standing up and doing the right thing!
Jenea
10:03 am on Friday, August 26, 2011
The next school board meeting will be September 13 at 7pm in the Admin. Bldg. Board Room
Jen
11:12 am on Friday, August 26, 2011
I am grateful for the Patch reporters...reading this and some of the other articles...wow, so much going on I'm in awe. What a disgrace. Maybe this will force some change.
James Boyle
11:39 am on Friday, August 26, 2011
All credit goes to Jen Mohan. She has spent many hours going over court documents and tracking down the information. As a Centennial parent, I am thankful.
PAG
2:44 pm on Friday, August 26, 2011
It is truly a shame that the actions of a few have suiled the image, reputation and the fine efforts that so many have worked hard to establish in the past. Having been associated with the Centennial Schools as a staff member for 16 years I have prided myself in counting among my professional and personal associations; parents, students, board members, teachers, staff and fellow administrators who were beyond reproach in their endeavors. Gene Grossi, Barbara Rabinowitz, Mel Benson, Joan Jankowski, Harry Harhigh, Tom Sexton, Pat Johnson, Dave Blatt, Nancy Reid, Ken Kastle - I could go on and on. These individuals along with caring parents - voluteering their time to help me in attaining my school goals, students who were caring and involved helped make Centennial a district which put kids first. I may not have agreed with all of my associates in all cases but I never questioned their motives; [IT] was always about kids! How can a district widely respected in the past fall on such hard times?
Tired of Hypocrisy
4:21 am on Saturday, August 27, 2011
I agree with PAG about Gene Grossi, Barbara Rabinowitz, Mel Benson, Harry Harhigh, Tom Sexton, Nancy Reid, etc. They cared about the education and well-being of the students. Nothing was swept under the rug while they were Administrators or School Board members. Parents were never turned away nor required to request permission to speak at Board meetings or their remarks timed. Dr. Sexton's, Nancy Reid's, Harry Harhigh's doors & minds were always open to any parent who wished to discuss a problem, concept, etc.They did not feel they were 'above' speaking and working with parents. The current Administration is constantly in unavailable and the Board members are self-serving, witnessed by the assertation Lynch wanted a favor for her grandchild. Although difficult but not impossible, the best solution would be a clean sweep. Parents we need to unite, become vocal and not expect the CSD & School Board to care about our children their education and future, it is obvious they have not for some time now. Let's flood the meetings, demand resignations, report the secretative nature of the Board to the State. It will not be easy but will benefit our children greatly. After all the publicity and no resignations forthcoming it is obvious professionalism is not on any of their agenda's. The only agenda they have is their personal one. Very embarrassing for all involved. Dr. Dunar, continue to hold your head high.You are respected and adored in our community. Thank you for for your service.
Kevin Quinn
3:46 pm on Friday, August 26, 2011
As the meeting between the Warminster Supervisors and the School Board an elderly man approached me and a friend. He said that he was on the board years ago and we needed to watch out for the current board. He stated that they care more about self preservation than the kid's education. After reading about these issues I think he may have been right.
Michelle Hazlett
6:00 pm on Friday, August 26, 2011
I for one will be at the school board meeting on 9/13. I agree with Mary B. that we need answers and as far as I am concerned we need their resignations. ALL of them need to go!! It is a disgrace what they have done to this school. Dr. Dunar was the BEST at what she does. She was a class act and put the children first. We have truly lost a great principle and a wonderful friend in her! So, let's see.. 2 scandals in less than a year with Centennial SD and the board is behind them both. Sorry, but don't see any reason for them to stay.
betsy mueller
12:12 am on Saturday, August 27, 2011
I can remember the excitement and pure joy we felt the day we found out Dr. Dunar was going to be the principal@ WD(not to mention our kids faces). She was the glimmer of hope to see us all through this transition. It is unbelievable that someone who has spent so much time "antibullying" has beenbulliedherself. We have lost a family member. I can't imagine the agonizing decisions she has been faced with. We will miss your guidance, genuine caring, and beautiful smile :)
You deserve so much more!
Pete Krenshaw
12:23 am on Saturday, August 27, 2011
The Centennial School Board is masterful in the art of keeping things quiet. These stories are incredible! It makes me wonder what the current administration is up to... I find it hard to believe that Vic Lasher has not been replaced while the district is in the midst of major construction projects costing over a hunderd million dollars. Who is responsible for making sure things happen according to plan? Oh yeah, there was that article about a week ago all about Mr. William Gretton and the snafu with Upper Southampton Township. Awesome!
Rich Luce
11:17 am on Saturday, August 27, 2011
Dr Dunar was an excellant educator, and I knew her husband when he was a K-9 officer.
I always amazed how school directors change after they are elected. It like CSD exists in an alternate universe - with their own set of standards. Sexual harrassment is sexual harrassment, and for Pollock to do what is purported is unforgivable.
Mary Alice Brancato
12:29 pm on Saturday, August 27, 2011
It's time for this community to come together and demand the resignation of Dr. Pollock! We need to make a stand and demand the school board make some serious changes!
Rich you are right! Sexual harassment can not be tolerated and swept under the rug!
To lose Dr. Dunar.....a woman who genuinely cared for our kids...cared for our families is deplorable! She was the best thing to happen to this community and school district in a long time!
I urge everyone to come out in large numbers to the school board meeting and demand Dr. Pollock resign immediately! September 13th @ 7PM. We need to show Dr. Pollock the way to the door!
CSD Resident
1:14 pm on Saturday, August 27, 2011
As an educator and parent in CSD, I too am extremely disappointed in the way things were handled by our school board. I don't agree, however, with the assumption that the entire District is in the can due to some terrible decisions by a few individuals. The people who have the most impact on students are those of us who are in contact with them the most, the professional staff. I am proud to say I teach with an exceptional group of educators who continue to work extremely hard to provide the best education possible for our children. Finally, please give Michael Donnelly a chance before you bury him and assume he can't do an excellent job as principal of Willow Dale. I am and will always be proud to be part of the Centennial family and I look forward to seeing those eager faces again next week!
Year of the rabbit
9:26 pm on Monday, August 29, 2011
This is such a blood pressure raising situation its tough to put into words all that I'm feeling.
How horrifying that in the 21st century, women still need to deal with the barbaric and utterly immature nature of some men.
This is the stuff of Hollywood movies....Dr Pollack, if I had to live with you as your
wife or child I would have your bags packed outside the door. You are weak of character and a disgrace to your position.
Dr Turnbaugh is an arcaic pig but you are worse because you didn't stand up for what was right and you sold your soul probably to save your own a$$. Pathetic losers are what you are and to think you are " educated" up to your eyeballs . You should think twice about ever using the Dr title again.
Jack Ellis
5:19 am on Wednesday, August 31, 2011
The worst part is this: This information did not leak until AFTER this past May's primary election, when Dr. Pollock was handed another 4-year term on the Centennial School Board. NOW is the time to show Dr. Pollock that we're NOT going to elect in HIS CRONY for a 4-year term. Running with Dr. Pollock (on the GOP ticket, for the GOP-led CSD) is Steve Adams. If you want MORE Dr. Pollocks on the CSD, this November, vote for Steve Adams. If you want FEWER Dr. Pollocks on the CSD, this November, vote for Mark Greiner, the Democratic challenger for the 2nd seat in Region II. The Warminster GOP website is here: http://www.warminstergop.org/elections.html.
Pete Krenshaw
11:44 pm on Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Steve Adams is in no way, shape or form like Pollock. The issues we are facing is not a democrat or republican issue. I could just as easily say "If you want more Ellen Jarvis' running around, vote for Mark Greiner, the Democratic candidate". Do the right thing and vote for the candidate, not the party. Do the homework and find out WHO you are voting for.
Pete Krenshaw
10:46 pm on Saturday, September 3, 2011
Oh, hi Ellen! How nice to see you back commenting on the Patch website. At least you are not running from a meeting to write these comments. Maybe your name was brought up because you were a Democrat who decided to abuse the power of your position just as Pollock and Lynch. The only difference is they happen to be Republicans. This makes my point that its not about the political party. It is about the individuals who have been elected and trusted with power and then acted as if they were above the law, abusing that power. But I guess I don't need to tell you about that.
Jane Lynch
11:23 pm on Thursday, September 1, 2011
As a School Board member and a public servant, the community must know that the things being reported about me are completely false. Never in my 40-plus years of public service have I experienced someone making claims that are as far-fetched and erroneous as the claims in these lawsuits. I want the community to know how hard it is for me to hold back, knowing that false allegations are being repeated and passed along. Remember that the School District has not had the opportunity to officially respond because the litigation has not reached the point where it can respond. If you hear anyone repeating any of these false allegations, please tell them what a difficult spot the School Board is in. Let them know that we are doing the right thing for this School District by following the legal rules of procedure. This means waiting for the proper time to set the record straight.
Our attorneys advise us that we have excellent defenses to the legal claims. However, I feel that it is my responsibility as a School Board member to make sure that the community officially heard from me that I am outraged by these false allegations. But I also have faith in the legal process. I urge everyone not to rush to judgment until the legal process has concluded.
Mary Alice Brancato
12:22 am on Friday, September 2, 2011
Mrs. Lynch if you or anyone else is trying to convince the people of Warminster that Dr. Dunar's accusations are false/far fetched you will have one hell of an uphill battle. Those of us that know her know that this decision she has come to could not have been done lightly. Her reputation speaks for itself. She is a woman of honor and dedication.
So if that is the point you are trying to make don't waste your time.
As a citizen of Warminster, a parent of many children in Centennial School District I have to say I feel a responsibility to stand up and demand anyone who turned a blind eye to this sexual harassment be removed from the school board or step down. There is no excuse for a woman being harassed by anyone!
Michelle Hazlett
12:45 pm on Friday, September 2, 2011
Hate to tell you but the school board is going down and you are going with it. Centennial is rebuilding itself and becoming a brand new district. So I say, out with the old and in with the new. That includes the school board. The board is in a difficult spot because you put yourself there!!! Want to blame someone, look in the mirror or look at Dr. Pollack!! Dr. Dunar has more class in her little pinky than the whole school board has in both of their hands! I am glad your lawyers have told you that you have an excellent defense. They will say anything as long as you are putting money in their pockets, and with 3 lawsuits that they are helping the board defend they will be able to pay fir their childrens college educations in CASH!!!!!
Jack Ellis
11:03 pm on Saturday, September 3, 2011
Mrs. Lynch, save your "outrage" and present it at the 9/13 School Board meeting. Just tell us straight up: did you or did you not ask for a favor on behalf of a grandchild? If so, was it your granchild? The Centenniel School board is a mess. Remember the time that some guy told the chairwoman Muellar that he would shove the gavel up her A## if she kept banging it. She had him charged with terror threats. There's no faith in your legal process Mrs. Lynch. People can't have their Constitutional free speech taken away and then you get due process.
Jane Lynch
12:47 am on Friday, September 2, 2011
How dare you! As someone who has fought against "Sexual Harassment" for years, I do not in anyway shape or form want any woman to be subjected to "Sexual Harassment". I had "Sexual Harassment" againt myself and I know what that means and what that does in a woman.
Mary Alice Brancato
5:24 am on Friday, September 2, 2011
Notice Mrs. Lynch I used words such as "if you" and "so if that is the point you are trying to make." I'm simply trying to understand which accusations you feel are "far fetched and erroneous.
Pete Krenshaw
1:47 am on Monday, September 5, 2011
It is nice to have both Jane and Ellen commenting on the same article. We are just missing Pollack and then we would have the trifecta of current politicians who have taken advantage of the taxpayers and abused the power entrusted to them by the voters.
Pamela
8:33 am on Friday, September 2, 2011
This board is completely incompetent. You have allowed a lawsuit by Delaware Valley for non payment which is resulting in children's credits being withheld. You have allowed a lawsuit by Sandy Hornel and now one by Dr. Dunar. The High School is years behind on schedule and now Region 1 is 6 weeks behind on schedule due to mismanagement. Willow Dale is nowhere near ready for our children to attend next week. The community is footing the bill for your mistakes. What is the total dollar value of the high school to date with all of your "adjustments". Did you really think the community did not notice this was how the board wormed around the required community vote. Does this board really think we agree with the way you approved a teachers contract and now want us to come up with ways to pay for everything? Centennial School District is over $300 Million in debt. The lose of Dr. Dunar is the final straw. Dr. Pollock is the first person that needs to resigns for fostering this inexcusable behavior. Everyone of you can and will be held accountable for the simple fact that in his contract you were required to inform him of any allegations prior to investigation. Nothing like letting him intimate people more than he already was.
Milly from Philly
3:51 pm on Sunday, September 11, 2011
Pamela: My friends and I were out today for a Sunday Brunch and guess who was at the table next to us. Mrs. Homel and her lawyer, laughing about the million dollars they were getting for a settlement from Centennial. Of course they did not know who we were so we just listened. Found out Mrs. Dunar also has the same lawyer from Doylestown. Seems like these law suits are being filed for huge settlements. Very interesting cases here.
Jack Ellis
12:37 am on Monday, September 12, 2011
Mrs. Homel ... you've got to be kidding, right? How DARE YOU be laughing and joking with your lawyer in an obviously-public place within earshot of others, about the settlement which I am sure contains or will contain a confidentiality clause!! And then to be indignant about the revelation of your conversation? That just gives Milly from Philly's comment more validity! I am shocked at your indignation, and your stupidity for having private conversations in public. Maybe Centennial shouldn't settle.
Kenny
6:00 pm on Thursday, September 15, 2011
This is for Milly from the school board. Follow your lawyers advice and stop making up stories here. Remember that IP addresses can be traced. Pretending you overheard conversations to try to influence concerned parents is reprehensible. How you can come in here and support stealing from taxpayers and sexual harassment is really disgusting. If you are so concerned about settlements then why are you not upset with what the predator Turnbaugh was given. You have no business being near our children.
Milly from Philly
10:01 am on Friday, September 16, 2011
Kenny, you are inferring that I am from the school board not in my life time. I have no time for lawsuits and their huge payoffs. I am a concerned parent and taxpayer who wants my children to be educated and be in a safe environment. That means, no sexual harassment, no phony superintendents, no tax dollars wasted. Just educate our children, nothing more, nothing less.
Pete Krenshaw
10:07 am on Friday, September 16, 2011
No phony superintendents? I think they missed the mark again with the superintendent and the assistant superintendent...
Heather Patterson
6:48 pm on Saturday, September 17, 2011
Pete,
Given what I've seen of them so far, I expect the superindentent and the assistant were chosen so they will look the other way to the behavior of the board.
We can now expect lots of expensive kilns showing up, Jane Lynch's grandchildren illegally joining our school system and more pervert administrators like Turnbaugh who will have a license to do what they feel like, and with the full backing of the Board.
This pair will not utter a peep.
Jenea
12:58 pm on Friday, September 2, 2011
To Michelle's comment: Hate to tell you but the school board is going down and you are going with it. Centennial is rebuilding itself and becoming a brand new district. So I say, out with the old and in with the new. That includes the school board. The board is in a difficult spot because you put yourself there!!! Want to blame someone, look in the mirror or look at Dr. Pollack!! Dr. Dunar has more class in her little pinky than the whole school board has in both of their hands! I am glad your lawyers have told you that you have an excellent defense. They will say anything as long as you are putting money in their pockets, and with 3 lawsuits that they are helping the board defend they will be able to pay fir their childrens college educations in CASH!!!!!
Unfortunately, I would be willing to bet that the taxpayers are footing the school board's lawyer bill. I doubt the members are personally paying for it. So essentially, we are paying for their defense against a prinicipal we cherished and believe. This just makes it that much harder to bear.
Michelle Hazlett
1:22 pm on Friday, September 2, 2011
Jenea I know you are right but I was making a point saying that their lawyers will tell them anything as long as they are getting paid. I think that if the board is found guilty than I say we sue them for our money back. Criminals have to pay restitution so why shouldn't they!!
Jack Ellis
4:37 pm on Friday, September 2, 2011
OF COURSE the taxpayer is paying the CSD legal bills. And the settlements, unless there's an insurance co involved. Just think, Turnbaugh could come back and sue the CSD for violating his "privacy" rights and letting us know about the investigation against him. What a system!! Mrs. Lynch, I hesitate to give you the benefit of the doubt because I actually TRUST Dr. Dunar. Don't get so indignant when your morals and ethics are challenged becuase YOU have been around this township and politics a very long time. Maybe that is why you can't be trusted.
P,Krenshaw - this has nothing to do with politics. It has everything to do with things kept in secret from the public. Why is it that when you attend a CSD meeting, you have to write your name on a card to say you want to speak, you're limited to 2 minutes, and the Board VERY often breaks for Executive Session. Everything they decide is done either ahead of time, in committees, in Exeuctive Session or via e-mail. One of these fine reporters (Hello, PATCH!) should request e-mails thru open records to find out who knew what and when. Who knows how to bring the ethics investigators from the state back into Warminster -- can anybody do it? Dr. Dunar's claim that Lynch asked for favoritism sure smacks of ethics trouble, and SHE not the tax payer would have to pay the fine.
Mary Alice Brancato
4:56 am on Monday, September 12, 2011
Milly you should be ashamed. It's impolite to eavesdrop on a conversation and unless you were sitting on Mrs. Homel's lap I'm sure you only got part of the story.
Mr. Ellis were you there? Did you hear every word? I doubt that! Mrs. Homel had a meeting with a person who MILLY says was an attorney. How the heck would Milly know that? Mrs. Homel could have been laughing about a grandchild's antics or about a funny thing she heard about. WE DON'T KNOW NOR IS IT OUR BUSINESS!!!
Bottom line Milly and Mr. Ellis you have no clue what the true source of that laughter was from nor what Mrs. Homel and her lunch companion were speaking about. To gossip about another is a little disturbing and all you've stated is pure gossip!
Mr. Ellis....these 2 women endured tons of bullshit working for Centennial. They were harassed and who knows what else by the superintendent! I imagine the stress they worked under was tremendous! Have you ever spoken to either woman? Both are women of values and morals. Both stood for the students! Mrs. Homel has a right to laugh or joke or even smile. We have no right to tell her she can't when we have no idea what she was discussing at that moment unless like I stated you or Milly was sitting on her lap!!!
As far as GOD telling anyone they are stupid....I suggest you look in your own mirror this morning Mr. Ellis.
Milly from Philly
9:21 am on Monday, September 12, 2011
Mary Alice: A friend told me to go to the Patch and read the comments. All I can say to you is that I saw what I saw! I have to go to work now and I will not be able to comment on any replies.
Milly from Philly
6:36 am on Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Was there a conversation, was there a brunch? The answer of yes there was a brunch and a loud conversation. Was anyone sitting on Ms. Homel's lap, the answer is no! Didn't have to sit on lap, didn't have to eavesdrop, conversation was loud. Didn't know who the attorney was until she was introduced to a couple who came into the brunch, it is as simple as that! Nothing more, Nothing less. In a public place, where all could see and hear!!
Jack Ellis
8:29 am on Monday, September 12, 2011
The fact is, we know no facts. Other than that it IS our business. Public education, the quailty of its admins, teachers, buildings, curriculum, lawyers and lawsuits are bought and paid for with our dollars. When we spend $$$ on lawsuits and lawyering and the "vigorous defense" planned by CSD rather then our schools opening on time and in budget, the only ones who win are the lawyers. Look at it that way and nobodys going to be smiling, laughing or joking or being able to afford a Sunday brunch. It is not pleasant to be engaged in a lawsuit of any kind, no matter the anticipated settlement.
Words from Stupid here: walls have ears. Do not discuss private matters in public, whether among friends, family, lawyers or alone on your cell phone. The tiniest thing you say can/will be taken out of context and put up here on the Patch and publicized or misconstrued. This goes for the hazards of posting to Facebook or other social media like the Patch too. Look at what blogging did to teacher Natalie Munroe! This is the "new media" vs. public life (acting superintendent Homel). When Mrs. Homel filed a lawsuit against my wallet is when it became my business. When she called upon Dr. Dunar to serve as a witness (distracting her from her job with CSD?), it became my grandchildren's business. Turnbaugh is gone, now we have to pick up the ashes left behind. It IS our business, Mrs. Brancato.
Mary Alice Brancato
12:24 pm on Monday, September 12, 2011
My point Mr. Ellis is that YOU nor MILLY know what was being discussed and with who! The brunch companion could have very well been her neighbor for all you know. What I'm saying is do not assume! As far as Dr. Dunar ever being distracted from doing her job and doing it will I might add....I think some perv (Dr. Turnbaugh) might have been the only source of stress and distraction. Mrs. Homel asking Dr. Dunar to be stand up and speak the truth...that's not stressful. Some tell the truth no matter what. Dr. Dunar is one of those people! Seems to me the root of the problem is the powers that be with no morals or values who felt they could abuse women. If someone sexually harassed my daughter, my mother, my sister believe me a lawsuit would have been the most lady like thing I could have done! It is not Mrs. Homel nor Dr. Dunar attacking my wallet ....it is the idiots who did NOTHING when they were notified of disgusting unfair treatment of some of the best administrators this district has seen in years!
Jack Ellis
1:38 pm on Monday, September 12, 2011
Heck, I don't even know if there was even a conversation or a brunch! All I was saying is that when Mrs. Homel criticized Milly for posting "something personal" on the Patch, it was stupid for her to give Milly's comment any validity. I see now the comments have been removed. That's a wise move by Mrs. Homel. I don't know the basis for any of the suits, but I do know this: they're gonna cost us taxpayers $$$ and the only ones who are gonna be happy are the lawyers. Dr. Dunar has gone on to a better job in a great school district. Good for her! The loss is ours not hers. Is Mrs. Homel still with CSD? Is her issue that the CSBoard passed her over for promotion to superintendent when they hired Turnbaugh, who I think should have never been hired in the first place? Sounds like the CSD needs to do a better job of hiring!
Pete Krenshaw
11:01 pm on Monday, September 12, 2011
As far as the hiring is concerned, I think you hit the nail on the head here Jack. It is like a revolving door and it sure seems to go back to Masko buying a kiln of all things! Ever since then the CSD has not been able to hire/retain anyone decent.
Pete Krenshaw
10:13 am on Monday, September 12, 2011
The common theme here is mismanagement. I have zero faith in the Centennial School Board or the current administration. I understand they are new to the job but we can not afford rookie administrators running the show right now. Not when we have millions upon millions of dollars wrapped up in construction plus who knows how much tied up in lawsuits. I don't see things improving anytime soon...
Mary Alice Brancato
12:28 pm on Monday, September 12, 2011
Pete you've nailed it! Total mismanagement! Administrators haven't been upfront and honest afraid to be sued. Well see where that got them! They are being sued! Time to remember honesty is the best policy. If someone sees something unjust then speak up! Don't turn the other cheek. Time for a clean sweep! Time to put this school district on an honest upfront path. I encourage all of you to be @ the school board meeting September 13th.
Mary Alice Brancato
6:19 am on Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Thank you Mr. Ellis for clarifying. I appreciate it.
Mrs. Homel is not with CSD. And yes....Turnbaugh should have never been hired in the first place.
Sometimes written words need clarification since we can't see the person nor know the tone in which they were written. I sincerely appreciate your explanation:) Have a nice day and I hope to meet you at the school board meeting this evening.
Elle Waller
9:01 am on Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Mr. Ellis, I appreciate your comments because it is your point of view, but you do not know what you are talking about. Dealing with facts is one thing, dealing with rumors is another. Get your facts straight and then post. Hope to meet you tonight at the meeting.
Pamela
9:39 am on Tuesday, September 13, 2011
The problem with the residents in the districts is they let the SB do what they want and spend what they want. But do not let anyone raise the issue of a lawsuit because it costs TOO MUCH MONEY to the taxpayer. Did you not see how much money they have already cost the taxpayer due to your laid back attitude. You should have been up in arms 4 years ago when they started spending this money like it grew on trees. They approved $1,394 for a HAND DRYER in a restroom. Tonights board meeting they are approving ANOTHER $82,000.00 for changes. They are approving $45,601.50 for adding data to projector which allowed the pens to operate. CODING which should have been in the base price. $17,006.00 for ada resivions at the science casework because the design DID NOT MEET CODE. To date committed,recommended and other exposure CHANGES by the Board and Superintendent for the High School is $3,186,7122.21. BUT you worry about the cost of a LEGAL and LEGIT Lawsuit. When is this community actually going to do something about mismanagment by this board and their cronies?
Pete Krenshaw
4:43 pm on Tuesday, September 13, 2011
While I do agree with you about unnecessary, out of control change orders, many change orders are also legit which is why there is typically contingency money set aside on construction projects. I believe there was about $3,000,000 set aside for the High School project. Unfortunately the SB decided to add the planetarium to the high school construction and took the money from the contingency fund. This is not an appropriate use of the fund...when you change the scope of work you need to pay attention to the change in fees and plan accordingly.
Pamela
9:41 am on Tuesday, September 13, 2011
Should we even guess why there are tampon dispensers or SINKS in the HALLWAYS of an ELEMENTARY school???
Jack Ellis
1:08 am on Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Dispensers are responsibly added as, per the NIH, "the average age of menarche has been dropping, and typically starts anywhere from the ages of 8 and 15". I can't speak to sinks in hallways. Maybe it's for germ prevention?
Jenea
7:28 am on Wednesday, September 14, 2011
I was taken aback by the sinks in the hallway at first, but after thinking about it, I like the idea. With the sinks in the hallway, there is less chance of dalliance in the bathroom. I didn't even notice the dispensers. I guess they should have been put in the actual bathrooms, instead of the hallway - unless they are in the bathrooms. I'll be sure to look tonight at open house!
Jack Ellis
7:39 am on Wednesday, September 14, 2011
The dispensers are in the girls bathrooms.
Nicole Pries
7:41 am on Wednesday, September 14, 2011
They are in the bathroom. However we always had to go to the nurse to get tampons and pads. I think thats how it should be for elementary schools. Middle schools and high schools should have dispensary's.
Pamela
9:12 am on Wednesday, September 14, 2011
yes the dispensers are in the bathrooms. yes the average age of menstruation is dropping,however in elementary school 1) they are embarassed by the whole thing and would be going to the nurse 2) they do not usually carry change on them 3) it is not something that we should have to explain to younger childen who can read in 1,2,and 3rd grade. They belong in the middle and high school, not the elementary. This was a decision by the board without IINPUT from the communtiy once again. Sinks in the hallway, call it what you want, spin it how you want,it is ridiculous and a waste of money. Last time I checked they did not allow that many children to go to the restroom together unattended because of the chance of playhousing. Once again a waste of taxpayer money. But that is okay, because they cut teachers and Elementary Service Positions to pay for it. We can all thank the board for their due deligence in realizing that sinks and dispensers are more important than teachers and staff to our children. We can also thank them for teaching us that secrecy, sexual harassment, and breaking contractual agreements is an acceptable way of doing business in todays world.
Jack Ellis
9:36 am on Wednesday, September 14, 2011
What contractual agreements have been broken?
Pamela
11:19 am on Wednesday, September 14, 2011
the third lawsuit (or actually the 1st) by Delaware Valley for non payment of tuition. Dr. Pollock contracted with them for a set number of seats in their program, but only filled a minimum number. Dr.Pollack now feels that CSD does not have to pay DelVal for the full amount of the contract because he say that it is "per seat" not how many were "reserved" by CSD. DelVal was actually withholding credits for CSD Seniors until payment. So that is 3 lawsuits this Board is involved in, do we really have a licensed lawyer on the Board?
Jen
11:50 am on Wednesday, September 14, 2011
As far as the dispensers, I'd just like to say that there are many times those bathrooms are used in the evening when an adult may need to use them...also, these are in many public bathrooms so your young girls aren't only seeing them at school.
Pamela
12:11 pm on Wednesday, September 14, 2011
they have restrooms for the adult faculty. My daughter doesn't pay attention in a public restroom. However in her new school she did and I didn't appreciate having to explain to her what it was.This school district is so busy trying to complete with CBW/E in the latest building status that it is forgetting about the important concept of teaching. It's a shame they didn't put all this money into funding the teachers contract. I can't wait until everyone realizes that the funding the SB told us would come from the State and the sale of school property is now going to have to be paid for by the community....
Pete Krenshaw
1:32 pm on Wednesday, September 14, 2011
It was my understanding the CSD teachers are one of the highest paid faculties in this area if not the state, especially after the new contracts were approved by the school board.
Jen
12:14 pm on Wednesday, September 14, 2011
I'm not talking about faculty. I'm talking about me attending a basketball game and using the bathroom and getting caught in an emergency situation and needing that dispenser.
Nicole Pries
1:08 pm on Wednesday, September 14, 2011
I must be missing something here Jen. What did you do before hand when they weren't there. Every woman knows to carry needs with her no matter what. This school isn't for the parents it's for the children. You're missing the point.
Jen
1:13 pm on Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Go home. Sorry, I'm not perfect and not always prepared. I think with all the things going on in the district right now, this is a ridiculous complaint. And I find it hard to believe that a child would notice this ONLY in school and never in a public bathroom. REALLY?????
Nicole Pries
1:35 pm on Wednesday, September 14, 2011
And for the parents that have to explain this to their children it is a valid complaint. You may not be affected by it but others are. When you are with your parents in a bathroom you don't pay attention to as many things as you do in a bathroom alone. No one said only in school, but maybe the parents have avoided explaining it saying "when you're older". But now the kids are face to face with it everyday. Does it really matter if they only see it in school or not? I can honestly tell you growing up the only place I ever saw them was at the movie theaters and I thought they were gum or candy because you had to put money in like the machines. I never saw them in any other public place and that was because one of my parents were always with me and I was too focused on using the bathroom. Put your feet in others shoes for a minute or two and realize that children that are in kindergarten, 1st grade, ect don't need to know about these things until their parents are ready to tell them.
Pamela
1:39 pm on Wednesday, September 14, 2011
all i can say is she was really nervous about going to a new school and getting lost. I decided it would be best to take her over and show her how to get to her classroom, bathroom, and the cafeteria. Unfortunately she decided to take in the design of EVERYTHING. In a public restroom, I usually don't let her stand around and look. It's go in, do your business, and get out. So yes , she REALLY doesn't pay attention to "TAMPONS" and "NAPKIINS" for 25 cents.
Jen
1:54 pm on Wednesday, September 14, 2011
I have a daughter and I've been in those shoes. Sorry, again I feel that with issues like bus safety and class sizes, this really is a minor issue. It's not where I would focus my energy, but everyone is entitled to their own opinion.
Pamela
2:06 pm on Wednesday, September 14, 2011
1)the transportation secretary stated that not one parent has complained of overcrowding and that I was the only one to report a problem on Sept 7th (still NOT RESOLVED). 2)The floor in my daughters classroom is not finished and there is a hole in the wall going to the outside at the highschool where a pipe should be 3) Two(?) people expressed concerned last night with the board and the lawsuits 4) not one person expressed an issue about class size 5) the SB, Superintendent, and Principals are not commenting on ANYTHING... So exactly where is this energy being expended since it's not really at the SB meetings?
annoyed
2:18 pm on Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Funny thing Pamela..after i saw ur post about the secretary saying noone else complained of this issue about the buses AND i personally have notified her, cressman, robinson, getton AND the warminster police department,,,i decided to call...guess what she told me...NO ONE HAS COMPLAINED OF THIS ISSUE BEFORE..... abit ironic , huh?? she seems like she is in line with the rest....a LIAR!
Michelle Hazlett
2:23 pm on Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Pamela, I was at last nights meeting and I (the only one) expressed my disgust over the board and it's lawsuits. There were also 2 women who expressed their concerns over class sizes. 3 parents were there that had questions or comments about bus size and bus stop locations. If you feel that the floor in your daughters classroom is a hazzard and the hole in the wall is a danger than take a picture of it when you go to back to school night. Call the local news channels and let them know what conditions the classroom is in. They love that kind of thing. Maybe then the board will listen. As far as the pads/tampons thing goes I have boys so I don't need to worry about that (thank goodness). lol
Steve G
2:56 pm on Thursday, January 26, 2012
Dr. Pollock's lack of concern or referencing Marilyn Monroe over sexual complaints is troubling. This is a very serious issue and his lackluster approach to complaints of this nature, cause one to wonder if he is qualified to lead the School Board. I think that Dr. Pollock's actions in the two cases and attitude towards this issue should be investigated by an independent committee.
I personally believe that if these facts prove true, Dr. Pollock should be forced to resign from the School Board.
FYI
The next time the School Board is going to hire senior level administrators, hire an investigator to do an intense background check on the applicant. We all know that this task would be above the competency level of the current School Board.
I only pray that Dr.Turnbaugh was not given a severance package when he resigned???
Pete Krenshaw
4:37 pm on Thursday, January 26, 2012
Steve, I agree with your statements about Dr. Pollack. Unfortunately the Board felt he did such a bang up job they put him back in charge for another year. Lucky us...
And I do believe Dr. Turnbaugh was given a nice golden parachute...