NewsRamp is a PR & Newswire Technology platform that enhances press release distribution by adapting content to align with how and where audiences consume information. Recognizing that most internet activity occurs outside of search, NewsRamp improves content discovery by programmatically curating press releases into multiple unique formats—news articles, blog posts, persona-based TLDRs, videos, audio, and Zero-Click content—and distributing this content through a network of news sites, blogs, forums, podcasts, video platforms, newsletters, and social media.
FAQ: KQED Investigation into Whistleblower Retaliation Lawsuits Against Berkley Maynard Academy
TL;DR
Aspire Public Schools faces whistleblower lawsuits that could expose legal vulnerabilities and damage its reputation as an equity champion in charter education.
Two former educators allege Aspire Public Schools retaliated against them after they reported failures to provide legally required support for students with disabilities.
These lawsuits aim to protect vulnerable students by ensuring schools meet legal obligations and create safe learning environments for all children.
A KQED investigation reveals whistleblower cases against Aspire Public Schools highlighting systemic failures in special education services at Berkley Maynard Academy.
Found this article helpful?
Share it with your network and spread the knowledge!
The investigation spotlights two whistleblower retaliation lawsuits brought by former educators at Berkley Maynard Academy, a North Oakland charter school operated by Aspire Public Schools, alleging retaliation for raising concerns about failures to provide legally required support for students with disabilities.
The plaintiffs are former assistant principal Iris Velasco and former teacher Maryann Doudna, and their attorney is Elana Jacobs, partner at Winer Burritt Scott & Jacobs LLP. The defendant is Aspire Public Schools, which operates Berkley Maynard Academy.
They raised concerns about systemic lapses in special education services, unsafe learning conditions, and noncompliance with state and federal law, particularly regarding students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs), English learners, and students from low-income families.
Iris Velasco alleges she was terminated shortly after filing a whistleblower complaint, while Maryann Doudna says she felt forced to leave after repeated pleas for help went unanswered.
Jacobs emphasizes that retaliation against educators has consequences beyond the workplace, affecting vulnerable students whose rights are being ignored, and that silencing whistleblowers removes families' strongest allies inside the system.
The article raises questions about oversight and accountability in charter schools, noting they are public schools that must be held to the same legal standards as district schools regarding special education compliance and student safety.
The lawsuits against Aspire Public Schools are ongoing, and Aspire has denied the allegations.
Winer Burritt Scott & Jacobs LLP is a premier California plaintiffs' law firm with more than 60 years of combined experience, specializing in employment discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and whistleblower cases.
According to Jacobs, the plaintiffs hope to prompt meaningful change, ensure harmful practices stop so future students and teachers aren't harmed, and encourage a culture where educators can speak up about noncompliance without fear of punishment.
You can visit Elana Jacobs' attorney profile or the Winer Burritt Scott & Jacobs LLP website for more information.
Curated from 24-7 Press Release
